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This is evidently an incorrect application of the word…

“This is evidently an incorrect application of the word same ; for the feeling which I had yesterday is gone, never to return; what I have to-day is another feeling, exactly like the former, perhaps, but distinct from it; and it is evident that two different persons can not be experiencing the same…” quote by John Stuart Mill
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““This is evidently an incorrect application of the word same ; for the feeling which I had yesterday is gone, never to return; what I have to-day is another feeling, exactly like the former, perhaps, but distinct from it; and it is evident that two different persons can not be experiencing the same feeling, in the sense in which we say that they are both sitting at the same table.””

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.

Feelings are personal and cannot be shared exactly; each experience is unique.

In simple terms: Feelings are individual.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge personal experience.

Themes

subjectivity experience philosophy

Mood

analytical contemplative

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • art criticism
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

qualia personal perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize another’s feeling?
  • Can language convey emotion accurately?
A Different Perspective

Assumes feelings are wholly private, ignoring shared empathy.

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