Art Quote by Brand Blanshard
““Thinking in art and morals and even mathematics is neither the reflection in consciousness of a mechanical order in the brain nor the tracing with the mind’s eye of some empirical order in its object, but an endeavour to realize in thought an ideal order which would satisfy an inner demand. The nearer thought comes to its goal, the more it finds itself under constraint by that goal, and dominated in its creative effort by aesthetic or moral or logical relevance. These relations of relevance are not physical or psychological relations. They are normative relations that can enter into the mental current because that current is . . . teleological. Their operation marks the presence of a different type of law, which supervenes upon physical and psychological laws when purpose takes control.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Philosophy of Mind, 1949
Thought seeks an ideal order beyond empirical patterns, guided by normative, teleological constraints that shape creativity.
In simple terms: Thought aims for an ideal order, not just reflecting reality.
Key Takeaway
Pursue purpose‑driven thinking.
Themes
philosophy
creativity
normativity
teleology
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- artistic creation
- ethical decision‑making
- mathematical problem solving
- scientific theory development
Key Concepts
Idealism
normative theory
purpose
mental law
Questions to Reflect On
- How does purpose shape your creative choices?
- What normative standards guide your thinking?
A Different Perspective
Such ideal goals can be vague, making practical application difficult.
![“[How to think about a problem:] The first step is to make the problem specific . . . ; The second step is to form theories freely of how to rid yourself of that burden . . . ; The third step is to develop in foresight the consequences of your proposals . . . ; The fourth and final step in thinking…” quote by Brand Blanshard](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4bf/brand-blanshard-35170_burden_how-to-think-about-a-problem-the-first-s_1268830.jpg)
