This same philosophy is a good horse in the stable, but an arrant jade on a journey.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Philosophy works well in stable conditions but fails in practical movement or challenges.
- In plain terms
- Philosophy is good for resting but bad for moving forward.
- What can you take from it?
- Theory often fails in dynamic practice.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is theory useless in crisis?
- When does practice beat theory?
Another view
Philosophy guides long term strategy.
More from Oliver Goldsmith
The only art her guilt to cover, To hide her shame from every eye, To give repentance to her lover, And wring his bosom, is - to die.
Permalink to quote #43 He calls his extravagance, generosity; and his trusting everybody, universal benevolence.
Permalink to quote #45 When lovely woman stoops to folly, And finds too late that men betray, What charm can soothe her melancholy? What art can wash her guilt away?
Permalink to quote #42
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