“Reading is a mere makeshift for original thinking” implies that reading, while valuable for gaining knowledge and understanding, is not a substitute for creating new, original thoughts and ideas. It suggests that while reading can provide us with information and different perspectives, it is still a passive activity. It is something that we consume, rather than produce. It’s a secondary process, a “makeshift”, or a stand-in for the primary process of original thinking.
This quote emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and originality. It suggests that we should not just accept the ideas presented to us through reading, but we should also engage with them, question them, and use them as a springboard for our own original thoughts. It encourages us to be active participants in the process of gaining knowledge and understanding, rather than just passive consumers.
In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever. With the internet, we have access to an unprecedented amount of information and ideas. But this also means that we are constantly bombarded with other people’s thoughts and opinions. It’s easy to fall into the trap of simply consuming this information without really engaging with it or thinking critically about it.
In terms of personal development, this quote could be seen as a reminder to always strive for originality and critical thinking. It encourages us to not just accept things as they are, but to question them, to think about them in new and original ways. It reminds us that while reading and learning from others is important, it’s equally important to develop our own ideas and perspectives. It’s a call to be active participants in our own learning process, rather than just passive consumers of information.
