Closing Quote by Irving Babbitt
“It is well to open one's mind but only as a preliminary to closing it ... for the supreme act of judgment and selection.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Pragmatic Theory of Truth", 1922
Open mind is a step toward judgment; ultimate goal is decisive selection.
In simple terms: Think first, then decide firmly.
Cultivate discernment.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it appropriate to close the mind?
- How does preliminary openness aid final decisions?
May suppress openness if judgment is rushed.