Amount Quote by William James
“To begin with, our knowledge grows in spots. The spots may be large or small, but the knowledge ever grows all over... What you first gain from them is probably a small amount of new information, a few new definitions, or distinctions, or points of view. But while these special ideas are being added, the rest of your knowledge stands still, and only gradually will you 'line up' your previous opinions with the novelties I am trying to instil, and modify to some slight degree their mass.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Principles of Psychology, 1890
Knowledge expands in discrete patches, each new idea reshapes existing beliefs over time.
In simple terms: Learning adds bits that slowly adjust what we already know.
Key Takeaway
Integrate new concepts gradually.
Themes
learning
growth
cognition
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- studying
- research
- skill development
- critical thinking
Key Concepts
epistemology
conceptual change
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile new ideas with old assumptions?
- What strategies help you adjust your worldview?
A Different Perspective
New information may conflict with entrenched beliefs, causing resistance.
