A definition may be very exact, and yet go but a very…
““A definition may be very exact, and yet go but a very little way towards informing us of the nature of the thing defined; but let the virtue of a definition be what it will, in the order of things, it seems rather to follow than to precede our enquiry, of which it ought to be considered as the result. It must be acknowledged that the methods of disquisition and teaching may be sometimes different and on very good reason undoubtedly; but for my part, I am convinced that the method of teaching which approaches most nearly to the method of investigation, is incomparably the best; since not content with serving up a few barren and lifeless truths, it leads to the stock on which they grew; it tends to set the reader himself in the track of invention, and to direct him into those paths in which the author has made his own discoveries, if he should be so happy as to have made any that are valuable.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Definitions should guide inquiry, not just state facts; teaching that mirrors investigation fosters deeper understanding and invention.
In simple terms: Definitions must aid discovery, not just describe.
Key Takeaway
Teach by encouraging exploration.
Themes
education
philosophy
inquiry
Mood
thoughtful
inspired
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- research mentorship
- self‑directed study
Key Concepts
epistemology
pedagogy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers balance clarity with prompting inquiry?
- What methods best turn definitions into investigative tools?
A Different Perspective
May be too abstract for practical teaching without concrete examples.