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Feelings are of four sorts: Sensations, Thoughts…

“Feelings are of four sorts: Sensations, Thoughts, Emotions, and Volitions. What are called Perceptions are merely a particular case of Belief, and Belief is a kind of thought. Actions are merely volitions followed by an effect.” quote by John Stuart Mill
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““Feelings are of four sorts: Sensations, Thoughts, Emotions, and Volitions. What are called Perceptions are merely a particular case of Belief, and Belief is a kind of thought. Actions are merely volitions followed by an effect.””

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

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

Human experience comprises sensations, thoughts, emotions, and volitions; perceptions are specific beliefs, and actions are volitions leading to effects.

In simple terms: Thoughts, feelings, and choices shape actions.

Key Takeaway

Understand the link between belief and behavior.

Themes

philosophy psychology agency

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • mental health
  • education
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

cognition emotion volition belief action

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do your beliefs influence your actions?
  • Can emotions be separated from rational thought?
A Different Perspective

Complex definitions may oversimplify nuanced experiences.

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