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About this quote

What does it mean?
Thinking freely is valuable, but the content of your thoughts matters more.
In plain terms
Thinking freely is great, but what you think is important.
What can you take from it?
Focus on the quality of your thoughts.

Where it applies

  • evaluating beliefs
  • practicing freedom
  • self-improvement

Putting it to work

  • question your thoughts
  • value content over freedom

Questions to consider

  • Are your thoughts worth having?
  • What matters more: freedom or content?

Another view

Freedom to think is still a prerequisite.

More from Matthew Arnold

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  3. With women the heart argues, not the mind.

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