"To conceive the good, in fact, is not sufficient; it must be made to succeed among men. To accomplish this less pure paths must be followed"

This quote by Ernest Renan talks to the idea that simply having an excellent concept is not enough to make it effective. To make a good idea successful, it should be carried out in the real world. This often needs taking less than ideal courses to accomplish the preferred result. Renan is suggesting that although it is important to have a good idea, it is similarly essential to be able to make it a truth. This needs taking into consideration the functionalities of the situation and making compromises in order to make the idea effective. Renan is highlighting the significance of taking action to make an excellent concept successful, rather than simply having the idea and not doing anything with it. He is recommending that although it might not be ideal, taking less than pure courses is in some cases required in order to make an excellent idea effective.