Dictionary Quote by Ian Hacking
“A 'philosophical dictionary' is not a dictionary of philosophy that you use to look up obscure thinkers or recondite terms. It is a collection of brief and pithy essays on diverse topics, informed by one vision, and usually arranged in alphabetical order.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science, 2002
A philosophical dictionary offers concise, unified essays, not just definitions of obscure terms.
In simple terms: Essays, not just definitions.
Key Takeaway
Seek unified insight.
Themes
philosophy
education
clarity
Mood
analytical
educational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- studying philosophy
- teaching
- writing
- research
Key Concepts
lexicography
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a unified view aid understanding?
- When might depth be sacrificed?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex ideas.
![“[Thales] was reproached for his poverty, which was supposed to show that philosophy is of no use. According to the story, he knew by his skill [in interpreting the heavens] while it was yet winter that there would be a great harvest of olives in the coming year; so, having a little money, he gave…” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/812/carl-sagan-160_harvest-time_thales-was-reproached-for-his-poverty-wh_1947574.jpg)
