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The most ancient parts of truth . . . also once were…

“The most ancient parts of truth . . . also once were plastic. They also were called true for human reasons. They also mediated between still earlier truths and what in those days were novel observations. Purely objective truth, truth in whose establishment the function of giving human satisfaction…” quote by William James
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“The most ancient parts of truth . . . also once were plastic. They also were called true for human reasons. They also mediated between still earlier truths and what in those days were novel observations. Purely objective truth, truth in whose establishment the function of giving human satisfaction in marrying previous parts of experience with newer parts played no role whatsoever, is nowhere to be found. The reasons why we call things true is the reason why they are true, for to be true means only to perform this marriage-function.”

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.

Truth is shaped by human purposes, linking past knowledge with new observations, not a detached objective.

In simple terms: Truth serves human needs, connecting old and new ideas.

Key Takeaway

Recognize truth’s human context.

Themes

philosophy epistemology humanism

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal belief formation
  • cultural analysis

Key Concepts

marriage-function subjectivity historical context

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do our goals shape what we deem true?
  • Can we ever separate truth from human purpose?
A Different Perspective

Purely objective truth may be unattainable.

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