Meaning: Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist, lecturer, and poet, is known for his influential ideas on transcendentalism, individualism, and the importance of self-reliance. The quote "Every fact is related on one side to sensation, and, on the other, to morals. The game of thought is, on the appearance of one of these two sides, to find the other: given the upper, to find the under side." reflects Emerson's philosophical outlook on the interconnectedness of facts, sensation, and morals.

Emerson's quote suggests that every fact is connected to both sensation and morals. He implies that facts can be understood from two perspectives: one side relates to sensation, which can be understood as the empirical or experiential aspect, while the other side relates to morals, which can be seen as the ethical or philosophical aspect. In Emerson's view, the "game of thought" involves the process of uncovering the relationship between these two sides. This idea emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and intellectual exploration in understanding the deeper implications of facts.

Emerson's emphasis on the relationship between facts and sensation suggests that our understanding of the world is influenced by our sensory experiences. This aligns with the notion that our perception of reality is shaped by our senses, and our interpretation of facts is influenced by how we perceive and experience the world around us. Additionally, the connection between facts and morals highlights the ethical dimension of knowledge. Emerson implies that facts are not merely objective pieces of information but are also intertwined with moral considerations and implications. This perspective encourages a holistic approach to understanding facts, considering not only their empirical aspects but also their ethical and moral significance.

Furthermore, Emerson's quote hints at the interconnectedness of different facets of human experience. By linking facts to both sensation and morals, Emerson suggests that knowledge is not isolated but is interconnected with our sensory perceptions and ethical values. This interconnectedness underscores the complex nature of human cognition and understanding, emphasizing the need to consider multiple dimensions in the pursuit of knowledge and truth.

In the context of Emerson's broader philosophy, this quote exemplifies his transcendentalist beliefs. Transcendentalism, a philosophical and literary movement of the 19th century, emphasized the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the importance of self-reliance and individual intuition. Emerson's quote can be seen as an expression of the transcendentalist idea that knowledge and understanding are not confined to empirical observations alone but are deeply intertwined with our sensory experiences and moral consciousness.

Emerson's quote also resonates with the broader philosophical tradition of seeking unity and harmony in understanding the world. The idea of finding the "other side" of a fact, whether it be the underpinning of sensation or morals, reflects a quest for synthesis and integration in the pursuit of knowledge. This resonates with philosophical traditions that seek to uncover the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate elements, ultimately aiming for a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of reality.

In conclusion, Ralph Waldo Emerson's quote "Every fact is related on one side to sensation, and, on the other, to morals. The game of thought is, on the appearance of one of these two sides, to find the other: given the upper, to find the under side." encapsulates his philosophical perspective on the interconnectedness of facts, sensation, and morals. It underscores the complexity of human understanding and the multifaceted nature of knowledge, urging individuals to consider the sensory and moral dimensions in their pursuit of truth and wisdom.