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TRUTH, n.: An ingenious compound of desirability and…

“TRUTH, n.: An ingenious compound of desirability and appearance. Discovery of truth is the sole purpose of philosophy, which is the most ancient occupation of the human mind and has a fair prospect of existing with increasing activity to the end of time.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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““TRUTH, n.: An ingenious compound of desirability and appearance. Discovery of truth is the sole purpose of philosophy, which is the most ancient occupation of the human mind and has a fair prospect of existing with increasing activity to the end of time.””

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Truth is defined as a blend of desire and appearance; philosophy seeks it as its ultimate aim, persisting forever.

In simple terms: Truth blends desire and appearance; philosophy pursues it endlessly.

Key Takeaway

Seek truth, recognize its complex nature.

Themes

philosophy truth human nature purpose

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

Epistemology ontology metaphysics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you distinguish desire from truth?
  • Can truth be fully known?
A Different Perspective

Truth may be subjective, shaped by personal bias.

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