Growth Quote by John Henry Newman
““A true development, then, may be described as one which is conservative of the course of antecedent developments being really those antecedents and something besides them: it is an addition which illustrates, not obscures, corroborates, not corrects, the body of thought from which it proceeds; and this is its characteristic as contrasted with a corruption.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Development of Doctrine, 1845
True development adds to existing thought without corrupting it, preserving continuity while expanding understanding.
In simple terms: Additions should clarify, not distort.
Key Takeaway
Build on foundations, respect tradition.
Themes
theology
intellectual growth
continuity
Mood
thoughtful
scholarly
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- academic research
- religious education
- cultural discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
historical context
Questions to Reflect On
- How to ensure respectful development?
- What safeguards protect original meaning?
A Different Perspective
Innovations can unintentionally alter core ideas.
