# What Temperament in Philosophy means in A Pluralistic Universe

> Suggests that philosophical systems are often shaped by the personal vision and temperament of the philosopher, rather than being purely logical necessities.

## Explanation

Suggests that philosophical systems are often shaped by the personal vision and temperament of the philosopher, rather than being purely logical necessities.

James frames the entire lecture around the opposition between the 'sympathetic' and 'cynical' temperaments, which he argues underlie materialistic and spiritualistic philosophies.

James notes the aesthetic appeal of monistic systems ('clean and intellectual') versus the 'turbid, muddled, gothic' appearance of pluralism, highlighting temperamental preferences in philosophical choices.

James contrasts the 'thin' temperament of transcendentalists with the 'thick' temperament of Fechner, suggesting that philosophical systems reflect the personal vision and passion of their authors.

James highlights that one's general vision and sense of rationality decide between pluralism and monism, illustrating the 'will to believe' and the 'faith-ladder' as non-logical but decisive factors.

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