"Thought and theory must precede all salutary action; yet action is nobler in itself than either thought or theory"

This quote by Virginia Woolf highlights the significance of both idea and action. Woolf suggests that idea and theory need to come before any significant action can be taken. This is due to the fact that thought and theory supply the structure for any action to be taken. Without thought and theory, any action taken would be arbitrary and without function. Nevertheless, Woolf also acknowledges that action is more honorable than idea or theory. This is since action is the concrete result of thought and theory. Action is the symptom of ideas and theories, and it is through action that development is made. Woolf's quote is a suggestion that both thought and action are essential for significant development. Idea and theory offer the structure for action, and action is the outcome of idea and theory.