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Action Quote by William Ames

“Active creation is conceived as a transitive action in which there is always presupposed an object about which the agent is concerned; it is virtually but not formally transitive because it makes, not presupposes, an object.” quote by William Ames
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“Active creation is conceived as a transitive action in which there is always presupposed an object about which the agent is concerned; it is virtually but not formally transitive because it makes, not presupposes, an object.”

William Ames

About This Quote

Source Treatise: The Art of Living, 1625

Active creation involves a subject acting upon an object of concern, implying agency even when the object isn’t pre‑defined.

In simple terms: Creating requires a focus on something, even if not fully defined.

Key Takeaway

Identify what you care about before acting.

Themes

agency creation focus

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • project planning
  • artistic work
  • problem solving

Key Concepts

phenomenology intentionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What object truly matters in your work?
  • How can you clarify it?
A Different Perspective

Objects may be ambiguous, leading to misdirected effort.

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