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Single Idea 6718

[from 'The Principles of Human Knowledge' by George Berkeley, in 19. Language / D. Propositions / 4. Mental Propositions ]

Full Idea

So long as I confine my thoughts to my own ideas divested of words, I do not see how I can easily be mistaken.

Gist of Idea

I can't really go wrong if I stick to wordless thought

Source

George Berkeley (The Principles of Human Knowledge [1710], Intro §22)

Book Reference

Berkeley,George: 'The Principles of Human Knowledge etc.', ed/tr. Warnock,G.J. [Fontana 1962], p.61


A Reaction

I think it was one of the great errors of twentieth century philosophy to say that Berkeley cannot do this, because thought needs language. Personally I think language lags along behind most our thinking, tidying up the mess. I believe in propositions.