We do not quite say that the new is more valuable because…
“We do not quite say that the new is more valuable because it fits in; but its fitting in is a test of its value - a test, it is true, which can only be slowly and cautiously applied, for we are none of us infallible judges of conformity.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
New ideas must prove worth beyond mere conformity; their value is judged slowly and cautiously because we lack perfect judgment.
In simple terms: Value of new ideas requires careful testing.
Key Takeaway
Test new ideas before accepting.
Themes
innovation
conformity
judgment
valuation
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- product development
- art criticism
- scientific research
- policy making
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical thinking
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess a new concept’s true value?
- What safeguards prevent premature acceptance?
A Different Perspective
Assumes we can ever fully separate novelty from bias.