Abstract Quote by William James
![“We [may] answer the question: "Why is snow white?" by saying, "For the same reason that soap-suds or whipped eggs are white"-in other words, instead of giving the reason for a fact, we give another example of the same fact. This offering a similar instance, instead of a reason, has often been…” quote by William James](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ca9/william-james-228_abstract_we-may-answer-the-question-why-is-snow-w_906888.jpg)
“We [may] answer the question: "Why is snow white?" by saying, "For the same reason that soap-suds or whipped eggs are white"-in other words, instead of giving the reason for a fact, we give another example of the same fact. This offering a similar instance, instead of a reason, has often been criticised as one of the forms of logical depravity in men. But manifestly it is not a perverse act of thought, but only an incomplete one. Furnishing parallel cases is the necessary first step towards abstracting the reason imbedded in them all.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Will to Believe, 1897
Providing a similar example instead of a direct reason is an incomplete reasoning step that precedes abstract reasoning.
In simple terms: Using analogies is a preliminary step toward deeper understanding.
Key Takeaway
Use analogies as a bridge, not a final answer.
Themes
logic
reasoning
abstraction
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- philosophical debate
- scientific explanation
Key Concepts
analogical reasoning
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you move from analogy to underlying principle?
- When is an analogy insufficient?
A Different Perspective
Analogies can mislead if taken as explanations.
