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There are few things as toxic as a bad metaphor. You can't…

“There are few things as toxic as a bad metaphor. You can't think without metaphors.” quote by Mary Catherine Bateson
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“There are few things as toxic as a bad metaphor. You can't think without metaphors.”

Mary Catherine Bateson

About This Quote

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

The quote warns that flawed metaphors can poison thought, emphasizing that metaphors shape cognition and must be used carefully.

In simple terms: Bad metaphors distort thinking.

Key Takeaway

Choose clear metaphors.

Themes

language thought metaphor

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • teaching
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

cognitive framing semantic precision critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What metaphors shape your worldview?
  • How can you test a metaphor’s accuracy?
A Different Perspective

Metaphors are not the only source of bias.

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