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Categories Quote by Charles Sanders Peirce

“Three elements go to make up an idea. The first is its intrinsic quality as a feeling. The second is the energy with which it affects other ideas, an energy which is infinite in the here-and-nowness of immediate sensation, finite and relative in the recency of the past. The third element is the…” quote by Charles Sanders Peirce
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“Three elements go to make up an idea. The first is its intrinsic quality as a feeling. The second is the energy with which it affects other ideas, an energy which is infinite in the here-and-nowness of immediate sensation, finite and relative in the recency of the past. The third element is the tendency of an idea to bring along other ideas with it.”

Charles Sanders Peirce

About This Quote

Source Book: Collected Papers of Charles Sanders Peirce, 1931

Ideas consist of feeling quality, impact on other ideas, and ability to generate further ideas.

In simple terms: Ideas have feeling, influence, and generative power.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and nurture ideas that inspire and connect.

Themes

creativity philosophy ideas

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • brainstorming sessions
  • research development
  • artistic creation
  • team collaboration

Key Concepts

qualitative feeling causal influence conceptual propagation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess an idea's generative potential?
  • What feeling does an idea evoke in you?
A Different Perspective

Ideas may be abstract and hard to measure, limiting practical application.

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