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And as to the faculties of the mind, setting aside the…

“And as to the faculties of the mind, setting aside the arts grounded upon words, and especially that skill of proceeding upon generall, and infallible rules, called Science; which very few have, and but in few things; as being not a native faculty, born within us; nor attained, (as Prudence,)…” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“And as to the faculties of the mind, setting aside the arts grounded upon words, and especially that skill of proceeding upon generall, and infallible rules, called Science; which very few have, and but in few things; as being not a native faculty, born within us; nor attained, (as Prudence,) while we look after somewhat else.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

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

Human intellect lacks innate scientific faculty; knowledge requires deliberate learning beyond natural instincts.

In simple terms: Science isn’t innate; we must study it.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate disciplined learning.

Themes

knowledge learning human nature

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • self‑improvement
  • research
  • critical thinking

Key Concepts

innate vs acquired intellect scientific method

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you develop scientific habits?
  • What limits natural understanding?
A Different Perspective

Limited by personal biases and societal constraints.

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