This phrase recurs throughout Fuller's writings, and what lies behind it is his deprecation of merely abstract ideas offered as solutions to humanity's problems.
"All philosophic concepts which are translated only into 'bright ideas' as voiced or written suggestions or criticisms are abortions of intellect's higher potentials. My experience teaches me that philosophic conclusions which are... teleologically derived may always be reduced to Design Science changes of the environment." (Utopia Or Oblivion, p.366)
"Ideas are easy to come by but reduction to practice is an arduous but inspirationally rewarding matter." (Critical Path, p.150)
See Teleology.
© Paul Taylor 2001