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The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once remarked that if…

“The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once remarked that if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you five, that is a mistake. But if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you ninety-seven, that is no longer a mistake. The man you are talking to is operating with a wholly…” quote by Thomas Friedman
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“The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once remarked that if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you five, that is a mistake. But if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you ninety-seven, that is no longer a mistake. The man you are talking to is operating with a wholly different logic from your own.”

Thomas Friedman

About This Quote

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

Different logical frameworks can produce wildly different answers, showing how perspective shapes truth.

In simple terms: Logic varies by perspective.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect differing viewpoints.

Themes

philosophy logic communication

Mood

thoughtful curious

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • cross‑cultural dialogue
  • education
  • conflict resolution
  • team decision‑making

Key Concepts

relativism epistemology cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify the logic behind someone's claim?
  • When should you challenge a differing logical framework?
A Different Perspective

Assuming your logic is universal can hinder understanding.

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