--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Selection is the very keel on which our…" description: "\"Selection is the very keel on which our mental ship is built. And in this case of memory its utility is obvious. If we remembered everything, we should..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f4c/william-james-228_cases_selection-is-the-very-keel-on-which-our_1825080.jpg" --- # Selection is the very keel on which our mental ship is… ![“Selection is the very keel on which our mental ship is built. And in this case of memory its utility is obvious. If we remembered everything, we should on most occasions be as ill off as if we remembered nothing.” quote by William James](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f4c/william-james-228_cases_selection-is-the-very-keel-on-which-our_1825080.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f4c/william-james-228_cases_selection-is-the-very-keel-on-which-our_1825080.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f4c/william-james-228_cases_selection-is-the-very-keel-on-which-our_1825080.jpg) > “Selection is the very keel on which our mental ship is built. And in this case of memory its utility is obvious. If we remembered everything, we should on most occasions be as ill off as if we remembered nothing.” [William James](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/william-james/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Memory shapes our identity and decisions, but total recall would be overwhelming and harmful. **In simple terms:** Memory guides us, but too much would be burdensome. Key Takeaway Balance remembering useful details and letting go of trivial ones. Themes memory identity balance psychology Mood reflective thoughtful Type philosophical psychological When to use this quote - studying - personal relationships - stress management - decision making Key Concepts cognitive load selective recall self-concept Questions to Reflect On - What details are essential to retain? - How does forgetting benefit you? A Different Perspective Total recall could impair mental health and decision efficiency. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Ill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/ill/) [Memories](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/memories/) [Memory](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/memory/) [Occasions](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/occasions/) [Psychology](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/psychology/) ## Related quotes > [It is folly to use as one's guide in the selection of fundamental science the criterion of utility. Not because (scientists)... despise utility. 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