Single Idea 6432

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / F. Analytic Philosophy / 1. Nature of Analysis]

Full Idea

It seems to me evident that, as in the case of impure water, analysis gives new knowledge without destroying any of the previously existing knowledge.

Gist of Idea

Analysis gives new knowledge, without destroying what we already have

Source

Bertrand Russell (My Philosophical Development [1959], Ch.11)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'My Philosophical Development' [Routledge 1993], p.98


A Reaction

I agree. On the whole, opponents of analysis are sentimental mystics who are reluctant to think carefully about life. I'm not sure what careful and concentrated thought is capable of, apart from analysis.