Skip to content

Brain: an apparatus with which we think that we think…

“Brain: an apparatus with which we think that we think. Mind, n. A mysterious form of matter secreted by the brain.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
Download Open image
“Brain: an apparatus with which we think that we think. Mind, n. A mysterious form of matter secreted by the brain.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The definition portrays the mind as a mysterious, perhaps unknowable, substance produced by the brain, highlighting the complexity of consciousness.

In simple terms: Mind is a puzzling material created by the brain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of our understanding of consciousness.

Themes

philosophy science mind consciousness

Mood

thoughtful curious

Type

definitional philosophical

When to use this quote

  • psychology research
  • philosophical debate
  • neuroscience education
  • personal introspection

Key Concepts

materialism epistemology self‑awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this definition imply about free will?
  • Can we ever fully understand consciousness?
A Different Perspective

The brain may not fully explain mental phenomena, leaving gaps in knowledge.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ambrose Bierce

Explore all 1,157 Ambrose Bierce quotes

More Brain quotes

Browse all 8,465 Brain quotes