Thing Quote by Joseph Butler
“Every thing is what it is, and not another thing.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: Sermons and Discourses, 1726
Things possess intrinsic identities; they are what they are, not something else.
In simple terms: Things are what they are.
Key Takeaway
Accept reality as it is.
Themes
identity
reality
philosophy
Mood
neutral
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- scientific observation
- legal definitions
- personal identity
- art criticism
Key Concepts
Essentialism
ontology
logic
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing a thing's true nature help?
- When might redefining a thing be useful?
A Different Perspective
Rigid categorization can limit creative thinking.
