Page 11 - The Irony Board

Into the Mind

Polished or broken

Ideas should leave
The mind like rocks leave
A lapidary.

Maintaining a standard of conceptual resolution and consistency
is, for Gluckman, imperative; the alternative is holding views
insufficiently examined, certainly a sin for the philosopher. Here, the
interaction of ideas inside the mind is compared to the application
of both force and skill to uncut gems. As a metaphor for careful
thought, it is clear that the best ideas emerge (are made conscious or
public) smooth and shining, with rough edges knocked off
(unnecessary or unwarranted associations eliminated); the worst, in
turn, are demolished. The implication is that logic is the right tool
for the job.

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