Meaning: The quote you have provided comes from Samuel Alexander, a renowned philosopher who made significant contributions to the field of metaphysics. In this particular quote, Alexander is discussing the concept of "conation," which refers to the mental faculty of striving, volition, or purposeful action. In the context of psychology and philosophy, conation is often considered alongside cognition (the mental processes of acquiring knowledge) and affection (the emotional and feeling aspect of consciousness). Samuel Alexander's exploration of conation reflects his interest in understanding the complexities of human consciousness and agency.

When Alexander mentions that it is more difficult to designate this form of conation on its practical side by a satisfactory name, he is pointing to the challenge of capturing the essence of conation in a single, definitive term. The practical side of conation relates to its application in real-life situations, encompassing the choices, efforts, and intentions that drive human behavior. Alexander seems to suggest that finding a precise and comprehensive label for this aspect of conation poses a significant challenge. This reflects the nuanced and intricate nature of human volition and purposeful action, which may not be easily encapsulated in a single word or phrase.

Samuel Alexander's work on conation aligns with broader discussions in philosophy and psychology about the nature of human will, motivation, and the pursuit of goals. In the realm of philosophy, the concept of conation has been explored by various thinkers, including Aristotle, who distinguished between practical reason and the rational aspect of the soul. Additionally, in contemporary philosophy, conation continues to be a subject of interest, particularly in the context of moral psychology and ethics, where the understanding of human agency and decision-making plays a crucial role.

In the field of psychology, conation has been studied in relation to motivation, goal-setting, and the dynamics of human behavior. Psychologists have sought to understand the interplay between cognitive processes, emotional factors, and volitional aspects in shaping individuals' actions and choices. The practical implications of conation are evident in areas such as education, where the motivation to learn and achieve academic goals is a key consideration, as well as in organizational psychology, where understanding employees' drive and commitment is essential for effective management and leadership.

While Samuel Alexander's quote is succinct, it encapsulates a profound insight into the complexities of conation and the challenges of representing its practical dimension with a suitable name. This reflection invites further exploration and inquiry into the intricate interplay of human will, intentionality, and purposeful action. By acknowledging the difficulty of designating conation on its practical side, Alexander prompts us to consider the multifaceted nature of human agency and the limitations of language in capturing its richness.

In conclusion, Samuel Alexander's quote serves as a thought-provoking entry point into the philosophical and psychological exploration of conation. It highlights the intricate nature of human volition and purposeful action, as well as the challenges inherent in encapsulating its practical aspects with a single, satisfactory name. This quote invites scholars, philosophers, and psychologists to delve deeper into the complexities of human agency and to continue engaging in fruitful discussions about the intricacies of conation and its practical manifestations in everyday life.

I hope this explanation provides a comprehensive understanding of the quote and its significance in the context of philosophy and psychology. If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask.