"All are lunatics, but he who can analyze his delusions is called a philosopher"
- Ambrose Bierce
About this Quote
This quote by Ambrose Bierce suggests that everybody has their own misconceptions, or false beliefs, however it is just the individual who can recognize and evaluate these delusions that is considered a philosopher. Bierce suggests that it is inadequate to simply acknowledge one's own delusions, but rather to take the time to examine them and understand why they exist. This is an uphill struggle, as it requires an individual to be truthful with themselves and to confront their own beliefs. By doing this, a person can gain insight into their own thoughts and sensations, and can start to comprehend the world around them in a more significant method. This is the essence of viewpoint, and it is what separates a theorist from a.
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