 Bertrand Russell Quotes 366 |
I have found, for example, that if I have to write upon some rather difficult topic the best plan is to think about it with very great intensity - the greatest intensity of which I am capable - for a few hours or days, and at the end of that time give orders, so to speak, that the work is to proceed underground. After some months I return consciously to the topic and find that the work has been done.
Source: Bertrand Russell: The Conquest of Happiness, 1930, chap. 5.
More info.: https://russell-j.com/beginner/HA15-050.HTM
* a brief comment (Translated with DeepL.com)
I wondered a little why Russell used the phrase 'the best plan' instead of 'the best way', and had a chat with ChatGPT.
- I -
> The Japanese translation of 'the best plan' is 'sairyo no keikaku', but here 'the best way' (sairyo no houhou) seems a more natural Japanese expression. Why did Russell use the expression 'the best plan' rather than 'the best way'?
- ChatGPT -
This is an interesting question. Consider why Bertrand Russell used the word 'plan'.
Difference between 'plan' and 'way':
'plan': refers to something deliberately designed, containing specific procedures and arrangements. It is a set of strategies and procedures to achieve an objective.
'way': a broader concept, referring to a method or means, but not necessarily a specific procedure or plan.
Russell's intention:
Russell may have wanted to emphasise that he was approaching the specific task of 'writing about a difficult topic' with a specific procedure or strategy. The use of the word 'plan' may indicate that his approach is more than just a method, but a specific and deliberate strategy. Therefore, 'the best plan' can be translated as 'the best plan' in context, but given Russell's intentions, 'the best way' would also convey the meaning. However, if the specificity of 'plan' is to be emphasised, 'plan' is more appropriate.