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.
C. S. LewisRead
There are no variations except for those who know a norm, and no subtleties for those who have not grasped the obvious.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding the norm allows appreciation of deeper nuances; without this understanding, subtleties are lost.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes the importance of being aware of the established norms in order to recognize and appreciate the subtleties that exist within any context. Without a clear understanding of what is considered 'normal,' individuals may miss the more complex and fine details that enrich experience and knowledge, suggesting that insight arises from familiarity.
Themes
NormSubtletyUnderstandingWisdomPerception
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion on cognitive biases in psychology.
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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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