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What is reasoning ? It is the result of doing away with…

“What is reasoning ? It is the result of doing away with the vital distinction which separates subjectivity and objectivity. As a form of abstract thought reasoning is not profoundly dialectical enough; as an opinion and a conviction it lacks full-blooded individuality. But where mere scope is…” quote by Søren Kierkegaard
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““What is reasoning ? It is the result of doing away with the vital distinction which separates subjectivity and objectivity. As a form of abstract thought reasoning is not profoundly dialectical enough; as an opinion and a conviction it lacks full-blooded individuality. But where mere scope is concerned, reasoning has all the apparent advantage; for a thinker can encompass his science, a man can have an opinion upon a particular subject and a conviction as a result of a certain view of life, but one can reason about anything.””

Søren Kierkegaard

About This Quote

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

Reasoning separates subjectivity from objectivity, making it a broad, impersonal tool rather than a personal conviction.

In simple terms: Reasoning is an impersonal tool.

Key Takeaway

Use reasoning to analyze, not to replace personal belief.

Themes

philosophy reasoning subjectivity objectivity abstract thought

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal decision making
  • ethical analysis

Key Concepts

dialectics individuality scope

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can reasoning be fully objective?
  • How does personal belief influence reasoning?
A Different Perspective

Reasoning may overlook emotional nuance.

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