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If we did not bring to the examinations of our instincts a knowledge of their comparative dignity we could never learn it from them.
C. S. Lewis
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Understanding our instincts requires awareness of their value and importance.

C. S. Lewis emphasizes the necessity of analyzing our instincts with a framework of knowledge regarding their significance. Without a comparative understanding of what is valuable and dignified in our instincts, self-discovery and true learning from them would be impossible.

Themes

InstinctsKnowledgeDignitySelf-DiscoveryLearning

In practice

Example use cases

During a philosophy lecture on moral reasoning, one might say this quote to stress the importance of self-reflection.

More from C. S. Lewis

A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
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I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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