Approach Quote by Robert Hass
“What we usually find is that when people think they have a new idea or approach something for the first time, it is actually a recurrence of a line of thinking explored in the past.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New York Review of Books, 1990s
Ideas often reappear as new, showing that originality is frequently a recombination of past thoughts.
In simple terms: New ideas are often old ideas in disguise.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and build on past work.
Themes
creativity
history
intellectual humility
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- research
- writing
- teaching
- product development
Key Concepts
philosophy
innovation
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you trace the lineage of your ideas?
- What value does acknowledging past influences bring?
A Different Perspective
Originality can be overstated; true insight may require deep historical knowledge.
