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I believe there is no source of deception in the…

“I believe there is no source of deception in the investigation of nature which can compare with a fixed belief that certain kinds of phenomena are IMPOSSIBLE.” quote by William James
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“I believe there is no source of deception in the investigation of nature which can compare with a fixed belief that certain kinds of phenomena are IMPOSSIBLE.”

William James

About This Quote

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

A rigid belief that something is impossible blocks inquiry, whereas open investigation allows discovery beyond preconceived limits.

In simple terms: Fixed impossibility limits discovery.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions, stay open.

Themes

science open‑mindedness philosophy of knowledge

Mood

curious analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research methodology
  • scientific inquiry
  • theoretical physics

Key Concepts

skepticism epistemic humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What “impossible” have you questioned?
  • How does doubt foster learning?
A Different Perspective

Dogmatic certainty can hinder progress.

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