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A philosopher is, no doubt, entitled to examine even those…

“A philosopher is, no doubt, entitled to examine even those distinctions that are to be found in the structure of all languages... in that case, such a distinction may be imputed to a vulgar error, which ought to be corrected in philosophy.” quote by Thomas Reid
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“A philosopher is, no doubt, entitled to examine even those distinctions that are to be found in the structure of all languages... in that case, such a distinction may be imputed to a vulgar error, which ought to be corrected in philosophy.”

Thomas Reid

About This Quote

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

Philosophers must scrutinize linguistic distinctions, correcting errors that arise from vague or vulgar usage.

In simple terms: Language errors need fixing in philosophy.

Key Takeaway

Examine and refine conceptual language.

Themes

philosophy language logic critical thinking

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic discourse
  • teaching
  • debates writingwriting
  • public policy

Key Concepts

epistemology semantic analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What distinctions most hinder clear thought?
  • When is precision more valuable than simplicity?
A Different Perspective

Over‑analysis can stall progress.

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