"The history of philosophy is not, like the history of the sciences, to be studied with the intellect alone. That which is receptive in us and that which impinges upon us from history is the reality of man's being, unfolding itself in thought"
- Karl Jaspers
About this Quote
Karl Jaspers' quote suggests that the history of philosophy is not something that can be studied exclusively with the intellect. Rather, it is something that should be knowledgeable and felt in order to be comprehended. He recommends that the truth of man's being is exposed through the history of viewpoint, and that this reality can only be understood through a combination of intellectual and emotional understanding. This quote stresses the value of comprehending the history of approach not simply as a set of realities and theories, however as a living, breathing entity that has actually formed and continues to form our understanding of the world. Jaspers' quote motivates us to look beyond the intellectual aspects of viewpoint and to explore the emotional and spiritual elements as well. By doing so, we can acquire a deeper understanding of the history of approach and its impact on our lives.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"
"We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people - history has made us all South Africans"
"It is humiliating to remain with our hands folded while others write history. It matters little who wins. To make a people great it is necessary to send them to battle even if you have to kick them in the pants. That is what I shall do"
