# Part II: The Place of Impulse in Conduct explained — Human Nature and Conduct

> Chapter companion for Human Nature and Conduct by John Dewey.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/human_nature_and_conduct_se/chapters/part-ii-the-place-of-impulse-in-conduct
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/human_nature_and_conduct_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/human_nature_and_conduct_se/chapters