Absence Quote by John Dewey
“It is not truly realistic or scientific to take short views, to sacrifice the future to immediate pressure, to ignore facts and forces that are disagreeable and to magnify the enduring quality of whatever falls in with immediate desire. It is false that the evils of the situation arise from absence of ideals; they spring from wrong ideals.”
About This Quote
The passage argues that short‑term, ideal‑free decisions ignore complex realities; true progress needs sound ideals and long‑term thinking, not merely reacting to immediate desires.
In simple terms: Short‑term fixes ignore deeper truths; need solid ideals.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate informed, future‑oriented values.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
future planning
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
idealism
short‑termism
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideals guide your long‑term goals?
- How to balance immediate needs with future impact?
A Different Perspective
Idealism can be misapplied.
