Meaning: Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821–1881) was a Swiss moral philosopher, poet, and critic. He is best known for his journal, "Journal intime," which was published after his death and has been widely read and admired for its depth and insight. The quote "The only substance properly so called is the soul" reflects Amiel's philosophical perspective on the nature of substance and the significance of the soul.

In this quote, Amiel is expressing the idea that the soul is the only true substance. This statement encapsulates a fundamental aspect of Amiel's philosophical thought, emphasizing the primacy and importance of the soul as the essence of human existence. To fully understand the depth and implications of this quote, it is essential to delve into the philosophical context and explore Amiel's views on substance and the soul.

Amiel's perspective on substance aligns with his broader philosophical orientation, which was influenced by existentialism and Romanticism. He was deeply interested in the exploration of human consciousness, emotions, and the inner life. Amiel's emphasis on the soul as the only true substance reflects his belief in the primacy of inner experience and the significance of individual consciousness.

From a philosophical standpoint, the concept of substance has been a central theme in the history of Western philosophy. In metaphysics, substance refers to the essential nature or underlying reality of things. Traditionally, substance has been associated with material objects and physical entities. However, Amiel's assertion that the soul is the only true substance challenges conventional notions of substance and invites a reevaluation of the nature of reality.

Amiel's perspective on the soul as the only true substance can be interpreted in the context of his existentialist leanings. Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. For existentialist thinkers, the inner experience of the individual, including emotions, thoughts, and consciousness, holds paramount significance. Amiel's assertion regarding the soul as the only true substance can be seen as an affirmation of the existentialist focus on the inner life and the subjective experience of the self.

Furthermore, the quote can also be understood in light of Amiel's Romantic inclinations. The Romantic movement in philosophy and literature placed a strong emphasis on the emotional and imaginative faculties of the individual. Romantics viewed the inner world of the individual as a source of truth, creativity, and authenticity. Amiel's assertion about the soul as the only substance properly so called reflects the Romantic notion of the soul as the seat of profound emotions, creativity, and spiritual depth.

In conclusion, Henri Amiel's quote "The only substance properly so called is the soul" encapsulates his philosophical perspective on the primacy of the soul as the essence of human existence. This statement reflects Amiel's existentialist and Romantic leanings, emphasizing the significance of the inner life and individual consciousness. By challenging traditional notions of substance and reality, Amiel invites contemplation on the nature of the soul and its profound implications for human existence.