William James quotes, with sources

American philosopher and psychologist, a founder of pragmatism. Here are 5 short quotes by William James (1842 – 1910), each with the work it comes from, drawn from 4 sources.

Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.

Correspondence with Helen Keller, 1908

The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook.

The Principles of Psychology, 1890

Believe that life is worth living, and your belief will help create the fact.

The Will to Believe, 1897

Some one must take the first step, and assume the risk of it.

The Varieties of Religious Experience, 1902

We are spinning our own fates, good or evil, and never to be undone.

The Principles of Psychology, 1890

Sources

Correspondence with Helen Keller, 1908
The Principles of Psychology, 1890
The Varieties of Religious Experience, 1902
The Will to Believe, 1897

Themes

Courage Focus Purpose Wisdom Hope Change Growth

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