"In fact, words are well adapted for description and the arousing of emotion, but for many kinds of precise thought other symbols are much better"
- John B. S. Haldane
About this Quote
John B. S. Haldane's quote recommends that words are effective for communicating emotion and describing ideas, but they are not always the best tool for accurate thought. He implies that for more complex and exact concepts, symbols are better. This is due to the fact that signs can represent abstract principles and concepts in a more succinct and direct way than words. For instance, mathematical formulas are typically represented by signs, as they are more effective than words for communicating complex concepts. Likewise, signs can be used to represent ideas in viewpoint, science, and other fields. In conclusion, John B. S. Haldane's quote recommends that words work for conveying emotion and describing ideas, however signs are better for accurate idea.
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