"Pre-occupation with theory, doctrine and philosophy can actually be harmful,

"Pre-occupation with theory, doctrine and philosophy can actually be harmful,
insofar as it distracts a man from the really important work of spiritual
effort, by offering an easier alternative which is merely mental, and which
therefore cannot change his nature."

(says Arthur Osborne in: The Teachings of Ramana Maharshi in His own Words,
Chap.1)