Concern Quote by Chet Raymo
“Someone once quoted Shakespeare to the philosopher W. V. O. Quine: There are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy. To which Quine is said to have responded: Possibly, but my concern is that there not be more things in my philosophy than are in heaven and earth.”
About This Quote
Source Article: Philosophy and literature, 2000s
Quine suggests philosophy should not exceed the richness of reality; keep inquiry grounded in the world.
In simple terms: Philosophy must stay within reality’s bounds.
Key Takeaway
Limit philosophical scope to real world.
Themes
philosophy
reality
knowledge
humility
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- teaching
- public debate
Key Concepts
ontological modesty
epistemic humility
Questions to Reflect On
- Should philosophy be constrained by reality?
- How do we balance imagination with empirical grounding?
A Different Perspective
Some argue philosophy should also explore beyond empirical limits.
