"When, instead of merely associating some act with some situation in the animal way, we think the situation out, we have a set of particular feelings of its elements"

In this quote, Edward Thorndike is discussing the distinction in between animal behavior and human habits. He recommends that animals just associate particular actions with certain situations, while human beings have the ability to analyze a situation and understand its aspects. This implies that people can experiencing a variety of feelings and sensations related to a circumstance, rather than just responding naturally like animals. By analyzing a situation, we have the ability to have a deeper understanding and connection to it, which can cause a more complex set of feelings and reactions. This highlights the unique cognitive capabilities of humans and how they shape our experiences and interactions with the world around us.