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...[T]here is no art in being intelligible if one…

“...[T]here is no art in being intelligible if one renounces all thoroughness of insight; but also it produces a disgusting medley of compiled observations and half-reasoned principles. Shallow pates enjoy this because it can be used for everyday chat, but the sagacious find in it only confusion…” quote by Immanuel Kant
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““...[T]here is no art in being intelligible if one renounces all thoroughness of insight; but also it produces a disgusting medley of compiled observations and half-reasoned principles. Shallow pates enjoy this because it can be used for everyday chat, but the sagacious find in it only confusion, and being unsatisfied and unable to help themselves, they turn away their eyes, while philosophers, who see quite well through this delusion, are little listened to when they call men off for a time from this pretended popularity in order that they might be rightfully popular after they have attained a definite insight.””

Immanuel Kant

About This Quote

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

Superficial clarity without depth creates confusion; true insight requires thoroughness and patience.

In simple terms: Depth beats shallow clarity.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding.

Themes

knowledge philosophy clarity depth

Mood

analytical serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • media consumption
  • everyday debates

Key Concepts

critical thinking intellectual humility rigor

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is shallow clarity acceptable?
  • How can you balance depth with practicality?
A Different Perspective

Simplicity can be useful for quick decisions.

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