Single Idea 23948

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / A. Wisdom / 1. Nature of Wisdom]

Full Idea

Wisdom is a matter of living both thoughtfully and passionately, bringing understanding to bear on every passion and forcing every passion into the light of reflection.

Gist of Idea

Wisdom needs both thought and passion, with each reflecting on the other

Source

Robert C. Solomon (The Passions [1976], 3.4)

Book Reference

Solomon,Robert C.: 'The Passions (1993 ed)' [Hackett 1993], p.65


A Reaction

His main point is that passion is a key part of wisdom, and the idea that wisdom is cold and detached is quite false. Good point. At the very least, wise people must relate sympathetically to others.