Famous quote by Nicolas Malebranche

"I beg of you always to dwell upon the necessity of a thorough understanding of principles, in order to stop the vivacity of his mind, and please do not forget to meditate upon the subject of our discussion"

About this Quote

Nicolas Malebranche’s admonition stresses the indispensable role of deeply understanding the foundational principles behind any subject of inquiry. He implores the reader or interlocutor to recognize that a mere surface-level acquaintance with ideas is insufficient; instead, one must grasp the roots and underlying logic that give those ideas coherence and true significance. By urging a “thorough understanding of principles,” Malebranche is not only advising intellectual rigor but also advocating for a method of inquiry marked by patience, introspection, and clarity.

The phrase “in order to stop the vivacity of his mind” points to a concern with intellectual restlessness. Malebranche is wary of minds that leap rapidly from idea to idea, seduced by novelty or superficial brilliance, without pausing to ensure stable comprehension. Such vivacity, while suggestive of intelligence and enthusiasm, may detract from genuine insight if not grounded in careful meditation on first principles. He perceives in this an inherent danger, the possibility that a mind too quick to move might overlook subtleties and become entangled in confusion rather than advancing toward truth.

Meditation, as urged in the closing admonition, serves as the corrective to this tendency. It is the act of sustained and concentrated reflection upon a topic, ensuring that one’s understanding is not only deep but also integrative, making meaningful connections rather than accumulating disjointed knowledge. By returning attention to “the subject of our discussion,” Malebranche emphasizes the importance of focus and deliberate contemplation as a means to intellectual mastery.

Ultimately, his guidance underscores a timeless principle: progress in knowledge depends not just on the quantity of information but on the quality and thoroughness of understanding. Intellectual discipline, a willingness to reflect, and a commitment to the integrity of thought are the hallmarks of those who genuinely seek wisdom.

About the Author

France Flag This quote is from Nicolas Malebranche between August 6, 1638 and October 13, 1715. He/she was a famous Philosopher from France. The author also have 16 other quotes.
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