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Aliens Quote by Ernest Jones

“[Freud's] great strength, though sometimes also his weakness, was the quite extraordinary respect he had for the singular fact... When he got hold of a simple but significant fact he would feel, and know, that it was an example of something general or universal, and the idea of collecting…” quote by Ernest Jones
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“[Freud's] great strength, though sometimes also his weakness, was the quite extraordinary respect he had for the singular fact... When he got hold of a simple but significant fact he would feel, and know, that it was an example of something general or universal, and the idea of collecting statistics on the matter was quite alien to him.”

Ernest Jones

About This Quote

Source Book: The Life and Work of Sigmund Freud, 1934

Freud’s deep respect for singular facts made him overlook broader statistical methods, limiting his scientific approach.

In simple terms: Freud valued unique observations over general data.

Key Takeaway

Integrate both case studies and statistical analysis for fuller insight.

Themes

psychology methodology science limitations

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

academic critical

When to use this quote

  • clinical practice
  • academic research
  • data‑driven therapy
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

cognitive bias research methods individual vs. collective

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can case studies be balanced with data?
  • What risks arise from ignoring statistics?
A Different Perspective

Relying solely on anecdotes can lead to overgeneralization.

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