Human Nature and Conduct · Chapter
Part II: The Place of Impulse in Conduct explained
This chapter examines the role of impulse in human conduct, arguing that while habits form the stable foundation of behavior, impulse serves as the dynamic intermediary that disrupts old habits and initiates change.
What happens
This chapter examines the role of impulse in human conduct, arguing that while habits form the stable foundation of behavior, impulse serves as the dynamic intermediary that disrupts old habits and initiates change. Dewey critiques the classification of separate instincts and emphasizes the plasticity of impulse, especially in youth, as a source of moral and social transformation.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the story's dramatic climax because it delivers a psychological reversal, rejecting the uti…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Impulse and Intelligence as Agents of Change
Impulse is presented as a crucial force that breaks the inertia of habit and opens the door for intelligent reconstruction of conduct.
- Plasticity of Impulse in Youth
The chapter emphasizes the malleability of impulse in youth as a key opportunity for moral and social transformation.
Characters to notice
- William James
Referenced in the context of psychological theories of instinct and habit.
- Bergson
Mentioned in relation to the concept of impulse and creative evolution.
- Aristotle
Alluded to in discussions of teleology and the nature of aims.
Key passages
“Impulse is the pivot of re-organization, the moving factor in the reconstruction of habits.”
Impulse acts as the central mechanism for reorganizing behavior, driving the transformation of established habits.
Highlights the dynamic role of impulse in moral and social change.
“The only way to change habits is to use impulse as a lever.”
Habits can only be altered by harnessing the energy of impulse.
Emphasizes the practical function of impulse in breaking and reforming conduct.
