Commit Quote by David Hume
“The forming of general maxims from particular observation is a very nice operation; and nothing is more usual, from haste or a narrowness of mind, which sees not on all sides, than to commit mistakes in this particular.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
Generalizing from limited data often leads to errors due to haste or narrow perspective.
In simple terms: Broad observations need careful, balanced analysis.
Key Takeaway
Check all angles before forming rules.
Themes
critical thinking
observation
logic
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- research
- policy making
- everymaking
- teaching
Key Concepts
induction
bias
fallacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure diverse evidence?
- What safeguards prevent hasty generalizations?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on single examples can mislead conclusions.
![“These illustrations suggest four general maxims[...]. The first is: remember that your motives are not always as altruistic as they seem to yourself. The second is: don't over-estimate your own merits. The third is: don't expect others to take as much interest in you as you do yourself. And the…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f03/bertrand-russell-69_desire_these-illustrations-suggest-four-general_3090726.jpg)
