Quote by J. L. Austin

We become obsessed with 'truth' when discussing statements, just as we become obsessed with 'freedom' when discussing conduct...Like freedom, truth is a bare minimum or an illusory ideal. --Austin, Papers 130.

We become obsessed with 'truth' when discussing statements,

Summary

This quote by Austin highlights the human tendency to place a great emphasis on the concepts of 'truth' and 'freedom.' It suggests that we often become fixated on these ideas when evaluating statements or behaviors. However, the quote also suggests that both truth and freedom are elusive concepts that only represent a minimum standard or a subjective ideal. In other words, this quote questions whether we can ever truly attain absolute truth or freedom, suggesting that they may be relative and ever-changing.

Topics

Truth

By J. L. Austin

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