"یک ایده همیشه یک تعمیم است و تعمیم یک ویژگی تفکر است. تعمیم دادن به معنای فکر کردن است."

The essence of this quote is that ideas are broad concepts derived from specific instances, and this process of making generalizations is intrinsic to the way we think. When we observe or experience something, our minds automatically start connecting dots, finding patterns, and making generalizations. This is how we create ideas and, in a way, how we understand the world.

Think about it: when you see a few red apples, your brain doesn’t just register those particular apples; it starts to form an idea of what an "apple" is. This whole process of generalizing from specific examples is thinking in action.

Historically, this concept has deep roots in philosophy and cognitive science. Philosophers like Aristotle discussed how humans categorize and generalize to make sense of the world. In a modern context, psychology and artificial intelligence research dive into how we form these mental models. This quote encapsulates a fundamental truth about human cognition that’s recognized across centuries.

Picture this: You’re at a new job and your first week is a whirlwind of learning. You see how your colleagues handle projects, communicate in meetings, and interact with clients. Over time, you start to notice patterns and from there, you develop a general idea of what works well in your workplace. Maybe you notice that people who ask questions during meetings tend to lead projects, so you generalize that being inquisitive is a good strategy for career advancement there. That’s you thinking through generalization—taking specific examples and forming broader concepts.

To apply this wisdom in your everyday life, start paying attention to the patterns around you. When you encounter new experiences, ask yourself what the broader lesson might be. Are there recurring themes? What can you learn from individual instances that apply to the bigger picture? For example, if you’re learning a new skill, don’t just focus on individual steps. Look at the overarching principles that tie those steps together. This way, you're not just memorizing actions but understanding concepts.

Let’s make this even more relatable with a scenario. Imagine you’re learning to cook. The first time, you follow a recipe to the letter—chopping, stirring, timing everything just right. The result? A delicious dish. Now, if you stop there, you’ve learned how to cook that one dish. But if you start to think about the techniques used—sautéing, seasoning, the balance of flavors—you begin to generalize those techniques. Next time, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re understanding the principles behind it. You can think on your feet, adapt recipes, and even create your own. Your generalization has turned you from a recipe-follower into a cook.

So, the next time you catch yourself asking, "What’s the bigger picture here?"—you’re on the right track. Embrace the idea that generalizing isn’t just a mental shortcut; it’s the core of how we think and learn. By spotting patterns and making connections, you're sharpening your ability to understand and innovate. So, don't shy away from thinking broadly. It’s how ideas are born and how we make sense of the world.