Philosophy stands in the same relation to the study of the actual world as masturbation to sexual love.

Summary

This quote, attributed to Karl Marx, suggests that philosophy, when compared to the study of the real world, lacks the depth and richness found in the latter. Just as masturbation cannot replace the intimacy and emotional connection of sexual love, philosophy is seen as a mere intellectual exercise, detached from the true essence and complexities of the world. Therefore, the quote implies that philosophy falls short in fully understanding and engaging with the real world, much like how masturbation is a poor substitute for genuine romantic experiences.

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