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Contemporary Quote by William James

“Contemporary philosophers, even the rationalistic minded ones, have on the whole agreed that no one has intelligibly banished the mystery of fact.” quote by William James
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“Contemporary philosophers, even the rationalistic minded ones, have on the whole agreed that no one has intelligibly banished the mystery of fact.”

William James

About This Quote

Source Book: The Principles of Psychology, 1890

Philosophers accept that facts retain an inherent mystery despite rational analysis.

In simple terms: Facts remain mysterious despite logic.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of rational explanation.

Themes

philosophy epistemology uncertainty

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • scientific research
  • daily decision making

Key Concepts

mystery of fact rationalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle unknowns in your work?
  • Can mystery be useful?
A Different Perspective

Rational analysis can never fully resolve all mysteries.

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