Human relations are built on feeling, not on reason or knowledge. And feeling is not an exact science; like all spiritual qualities, it has the vagueness of greatness about it.

The quote “Human relations are built on feeling, not on reason or knowledge. And feeling is not an exact science; like all spiritual qualities, it has the vagueness of greatness about it.” by Amelia Barr emphasizes the primacy of feeling in shaping human relationships. Barr suggests that while reason and knowledge are important in many areas of life, they are not the foundation of how people connect with one another. Instead, it is emotion—love, empathy, trust, and compassion—that forms the true basis of human bonds.

By describing feeling as not an “exact science,” Barr underscores its unpredictable and immeasurable nature. Unlike logic or factual knowledge, feeling cannot be quantified or precisely defined, yet it holds immense power. She calls it a spiritual quality, meaning it transcends rational boundaries, carrying a kind of greatness that cannot be reduced to formulas or rules. This vagueness, far from being a weakness, is what makes human relationships rich, profound, and enduring.

The origin of this thought lies in Barr’s life as a novelist and immigrant who experienced hardship, loss, and resilience. Living through personal struggles, she gained a deep understanding of human nature and often infused her works with reflections on faith, relationships, and the emotional core of life. Her writing frequently elevated the value of human connection above material or intellectual achievements, reflecting her conviction that it is feeling that truly sustains people.

In essence, Barr’s quote reminds us that while reason and knowledge guide many aspects of human progress, it is feeling that holds communities, families, and friendships together. The vagueness of emotion does not diminish its importance but enhances its beauty, showing that some of the greatest aspects of life cannot be explained—they can only be felt.