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I was interested in this because it bore out an opinion of…

“I was interested in this because it bore out an opinion of mine that philosophy is an affair of character rather than of logic: the philosopher believes not according to evidence, but according to his own temperament; and his thinking merely serves to make reasonable what his instinct regards as…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““I was interested in this because it bore out an opinion of mine that philosophy is an affair of character rather than of logic: the philosopher believes not according to evidence, but according to his own temperament; and his thinking merely serves to make reasonable what his instinct regards as true.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

Philosophy reflects personal temperament more than logical proof; reasoning just rationalizes innate instincts.

In simple terms: Philosophy is about character, not just logic.

Key Takeaway

Examine your instincts before forming arguments.

Themes

philosophy character temperament

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • ethical debates
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

epistemology psychology subjectivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do your beliefs stem from evidence or instinct?
  • Can logic ever fully capture personal truth?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on temperament can ignore evidence and lead to bias.

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