Meaning: This quote, by American educator and philosopher John Dewey, captures the idea that the world around us, particularly the atmosphere, is not something distant or abstract, but is instead intimately connected to our lives and demands our attention and engagement. Dewey's words suggest that we cannot simply drift through life in a dreamlike state; rather, we are compelled by our surroundings to take action, to study and understand them, and to respond accordingly.

Dewey was known for his pragmatic philosophy, which emphasized the importance of experience, action, and inquiry in shaping human understanding and knowledge. In this quote, he highlights the immediacy and inescapability of the atmosphere, using it as a metaphor for the physical and social environment in which we live. By characterizing the atmosphere as "much too near for dreams," Dewey suggests that we cannot afford to be passive or detached from the world around us. Instead, we are embedded within it, and it exerts a direct influence on our thoughts and behavior.

The phrase "It forces us to action" underscores Dewey's belief in the active nature of human existence. He argues that the atmosphere, as a pervasive and ever-present element of our surroundings, compels us to engage with it. Whether through scientific study, artistic expression, or practical problem-solving, we are called upon to respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by our environment. This sense of urgency and necessity is further emphasized by Dewey's assertion that the atmosphere "rouses us both to study and to do," highlighting the dual imperative of understanding and intervention.

Moreover, Dewey's reference to "its moods and also its motive forces" suggests a complex and dynamic relationship between humans and their environment. Just as individuals have emotions, desires, and intentions, so too does the atmosphere possess its own set of qualities and driving forces. Dewey encourages us to not only observe and interpret the atmospheric conditions but also to discern the underlying factors that shape its behavior. This call for deeper comprehension reflects Dewey's belief in the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the need to grasp the underlying principles that govern the world around us.

In a broader sense, Dewey's quote can be seen as a reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world. By emphasizing the intimate and inextricable relationship between individuals and their environment, he challenges us to recognize our responsibility as active participants in shaping the world we inhabit. Rather than being passive observers or detached dreamers, Dewey urges us to engage with our surroundings, to understand their complexities, and to contribute to their ongoing evolution.

In conclusion, John Dewey's quote serves as a powerful call to action, reminding us of the immediate and demanding nature of our relationship with the world around us. By highlighting the atmosphere as a force that both compels and inspires us, Dewey challenges us to embrace our role as active agents in understanding and shaping our environment. His words resonate with a sense of urgency and purpose, urging us to engage with the world, to seek knowledge, and to take meaningful action in response to the challenges and opportunities presented by our surroundings.