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Such words as "society" and "community" are likely to be…

“Such words as "society" and "community" are likely to be misleading, for they have a tendency to make us think there is a single thing corresponding to the single word.” quote by John Dewey
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“Such words as "society" and "community" are likely to be misleading, for they have a tendency to make us think there is a single thing corresponding to the single word.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

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

He warns that terms like “society” and “community” can oversimplify complex realities.

In simple terms: Words can mislead by suggesting single entities.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about collective terms.

Themes

philosophy language society

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • community planning
  • academic research

Key Concepts

semantics social theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden complexities do such words mask?
  • How can we talk about groups more accurately?
A Different Perspective

These labels may ignore diversity within groups.

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