Assertion Quote by Isaac Todhunter
“It has been said by a distinguished philosopher that England is "usually the last to enter into the general movement of the European mind." The author of the remark probably meant to assert that a man or a system may have become famous on the continent, while we are almost ignorant of the name of the man and the claims of his system. Perhaps, however, a wider range might be given to the assertion. An exploded theory or a disadvantageous practice, like a rebel or a patriot in distress, seeks refuge on our shores to spend its last days in comfort if not in splendour.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: History of Philosophy, 1865
England often lags behind continental Europe in adopting new ideas, yet sometimes it becomes a refuge for displaced thinkers.
In simple terms: England is slow to adopt new ideas but shelters exiled thinkers.
Key Takeaway
Recognize delayed adoption and value refuge.
Themes
history
culture
intellectual migration
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- political asylum
- cultural exchange
- innovation diffusion
Key Concepts
philosophy
sociology
politics
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a foreign idea valuable to a new culture?
- How can societies balance openness with critical scrutiny?
A Different Perspective
Not all foreign ideas are beneficial; some may be harmful.
![“[Asked whether he would like to see an experimental demonstration of conical refraction] No. I have been teaching it all my life, and I do not want to have my ideas upset.” quote by Isaac Todhunter](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8f4/isaac-todhunter-91156_demonstration_asked-whether-he-would-like-to-see-an-ex_1283258.jpg)
