We [may] answer the question: "Why is snow white?" by…
![“We [may] answer the question: "Why is snow white?" by saying, "For the same reason that soap-suds or whipped eggs are white"-in other words, instead of giving the reason for a fact, we give another example of the same fact. This offering a similar instance, instead of a reason, has often been…” quote by William James](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/ca9/william-james-228_abstract_we-may-answer-the-question-why-is-snow-w_906888.jpg)
“We [may] answer the question: "Why is snow white?" by saying, "For the same reason that soap-suds or whipped eggs are white"-in other words, instead of giving the reason for a fact, we give another example of the same fact. This offering a similar instance, instead of a reason, has often been criticised as one of the forms of logical depravity in men. But manifestly it is not a perverse act of thought, but only an incomplete one. Furnishing parallel cases is the necessary first step towards abstracting the reason imbedded in them all.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Providing a similar example instead of a direct reason is an incomplete reasoning step that precedes abstract reasoning.
In simple terms: Using analogies is a preliminary step toward deeper understanding.
Key Takeaway
Use analogies as a bridge, not a final answer.
Themes
logic
reasoning
abstraction
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- philosophical debate
- scientific explanation
Key Concepts
analogical reasoning
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you move from analogy to underlying principle?
- When is an analogy insufficient?
A Different Perspective
Analogies can mislead if taken as explanations.