I discuss with myself questions of politics, love, taste, or philosophy. I let my mind rove wantonly, give it free rein to follow any idea, wise or mad that may present itself. ... My ideas are my harlots.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker talks freely about many topics and treats ideas as disposable or for pleasure.
- In plain terms
- I think about anything I want and treat ideas casually.
- What can you take from it?
- Free thinking allows ideas to be explored without strict rules.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How free should your thoughts be?
- Are ideas tools or toys?
Another view
It may dismiss ideas that require serious commitment or follow-up.
More from Denis Diderot
People praise virtue, but they hate it, they run away from it. It freezes you to death, and in this world you've got to keep your feet warm.
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Permalink to quote #60 Bad company is as instructive as licentiousness. One makes up for the loss of one's innocence with the loss of one's prejudices.
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