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To define a thing is to see it clearly, to see it as…

“To define a thing is to see it clearly, to see it as distinct from other things and at the same time to see its exact relationship with other things: for a thing is its relations and activities.” quote by Michael Oakeshott
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““To define a thing is to see it clearly, to see it as distinct from other things and at the same time to see its exact relationship with other things: for a thing is its relations and activities.””

Michael Oakeshott

About This Quote

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

Defining something involves seeing its distinctness and its connections to other things; identity is relational.

In simple terms: Definition is about distinctness and relations.

Key Takeaway

Consider context when defining.

Themes

philosophy definition relationships

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • teaching
  • problem solving

Key Concepts

relational ontology conceptual analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What relationships shape this concept?
  • How does context change meaning?
A Different Perspective

Definitions can be overly rigid.

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