Calling Quote by John Dewey
“The only thing that is unqualifiedly given is the total pervasive quality; and the objection to calling it "given" is that the word suggests something to which it is given, mind or thought or consciousness or whatever, as well possibly as something that gives.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Experience and Nature, John Dewey, 1925
The quote argues that what we consider "given" is actually a pervasive quality that cannot be neatly assigned to mind or consciousness alone.
In simple terms: Pervasive quality is not simply given to mind.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the complexity of what we label as given.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
metaphysics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
theoretical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- philosophical debate
- educational curriculum
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
qualia
pervasiveness
ontological status
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we identify pervasive qualities in everyday life?
- Can something be truly "given" without a subject?
A Different Perspective
The concept may be too abstract for practical application without concrete examples.
![“I don't see [ Trainspotting ] as an albatross, I see it more as a calling card. It's got me out to Hollywood, I've got a good agent, I've got a good manager, I'm getting a lot of work out there and doing a lot of stuff - getting a lot of film projects on the go.” quote by Irvine Welsh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/918/irvine-welsh-843_agents_i-don-t-see-trainspotting-as-an-albatros_7750.jpg)
