The will is one of the chief factors in belief, not that…
“The will is one of the chief factors in belief, not that it creates belief, but because things are true or false according to the aspect in which we look at them. The will, which prefers one aspectto another, turns away the mind from considering the qualities of all that it does notlike to see; and thus the mind,moving in accord with the will, stops to consider the aspect which it likes and so judges by what it sees.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The will shapes belief by selecting perspectives, causing the mind to ignore contrary aspects and judge only what aligns with personal preference.
In simple terms: Will filters what we see, shaping belief.
Key Takeaway
Recognize bias in your judgments.
Themes
philosophy
psychology
belief
perception
bias
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- decision making
- critical thinking
- personal reflection
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
subjectivity
willpower
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs are you holding because of selective perception?
- How can you broaden your perspective?
A Different Perspective
Will is not the sole cause of belief; external evidence also matters.