One more word about giving instruction as to what the world ought to be. Philosophy in any case always comes on the scene too late to give it. As the thought of the world, it appears only when actuality is already there cut and dried after its process of formation has been completed... When philosophy paints its grey in grey, then has a shape of life grown old. By philosophy's grey in grey it cannot be rejuvenated but only understood. The owl of Minerva spreads its wings only with the falling of the dusk.

Summary

This quote, from German philosopher G.W.F. Hegel, suggests that philosophy is always late to the game when it comes to defining how the world should be. Philosophy can only reflect upon and understand the world as it already exists, after it has undergone its processes of formation and solidification. When philosophy attempts to describe reality, it is like painting with shades of grey - it can only understand and analyze what has already come to pass. The metaphor of the owl of Minerva spreading its wings at dusk implies that philosophy can only provide wisdom and understanding after events have unfolded and knowledge is gained.

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