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The history of philosophy is, to a great extent, that of a…

“The history of philosophy is, to a great extent, that of a certain clash of human temperaments…Of whatever temperament a philosopher is, he tries, when philosophizing, to sink the fact of his temperament…Yet his temperament really gives him a stronger bias than any of his more strictly objective…” quote by William James
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““The history of philosophy is, to a great extent, that of a certain clash of human temperaments…Of whatever temperament a philosopher is, he tries, when philosophizing, to sink the fact of his temperament…Yet his temperament really gives him a stronger bias than any of his more strictly objective premises.””

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.

Philosophical arguments are shaped by the author's temperament, which biases their reasoning more than pure logic.

In simple terms: Temperament influences philosophy more than objectivity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal bias in thinking.

Themes

philosophy psychology bias

Mood

introspective analytical

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • debate
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

temperament theory subjectivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your temperament affect your decisions?
  • Can objective reasoning ever be fully achieved?
A Different Perspective

Even awareness of bias may not eliminate it.

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