In every act of the will whatsoever, the soul either likes…
““In every act of the will whatsoever, the soul either likes or dislikes, is either inclined or disinclined to what is in view: these are not essentially different from those affections of love and hatred: that liking or inclination of the soul to a thing, if it be in a high degree, and be vigorous and lively, is the very same thing with the affection of love; and that disliking and disinclining, if in a greater degree, is the very same with hatred. In every act of the will for, or towards something not present, the soul is in some degree inclined to that thing; and that inclination, if in a considerable degree, is the very same with the affection of desire. And in every degree of the act of the will, wherein the soul approves of something present, there is a degree of pleasedness; and that pleasedness, if it be in a considerable degree, is the very same with the affections of joy or delight. And if the will disapproves of what is present, the soul is in some degree displeased, and if that displeasedness be great, it is the very same with the affection of grief or sorrow.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The will’s feelings mirror love, hatred, desire, joy, and grief; they are degrees of the same soul inclinations.
In simple terms: Will emotions are just stronger or weaker versions of love, hate, desire, joy, and sorrow.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that strong preferences are essentially love or hatred.
Themes
psychology
philosophy
ethics
human nature
emotion
motivation
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- moral deliberation
- conflict resolution
- self‑reflection
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Will
inclination
affection
desire
joy
grief
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate between a strong preference and an irrational bias?
- Can intense desire be constructive?
A Different Perspective
Strong emotions may cloud rational judgment and lead to bias.