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Truth, as any dictionary will tell you, is a property of…

“Truth, as any dictionary will tell you, is a property of certain of our ideas. It means their agreement, as falsity means their disagreement, with reality.” quote by William James
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“Truth, as any dictionary will tell you, is a property of certain of our ideas. It means their agreement, as falsity means their disagreement, with reality.”

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 describes ideas that match reality; falsehood describes ideas that diverge from reality.

In simple terms: Truth aligns with reality.

Key Takeaway

Seek evidence that matches reality.

Themes

epistemology philosophy reality

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • critical thinking
  • media literacy

Key Concepts

correspondence theory conceptual analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria do you use to judge truth?
  • How do you handle conflicting evidence?
A Different Perspective

Reality can be ambiguous, and consensus may shift over time.

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