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INTENTION, n. The mind's sense of the prevalence of one…

“INTENTION, n. The mind's sense of the prevalence of one set of influences over another set; an effect whose cause is the imminence, immediate or remote, of the performance of an involuntary act.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“INTENTION, n. The mind's sense of the prevalence of one set of influences over another set; an effect whose cause is the imminence, immediate or remote, of the performance of an involuntary act.”

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.

Intention is the mind's perception of which motivations dominate, shaping actions that may be conscious or subconscious.

In simple terms: Intent reflects dominant mental influences.

Key Takeaway

Awareness of intent reveals hidden drives.

Themes

psychology philosophy motivation language

Mood

analytical curious

Type

definitional intellectual

When to use this quote

  • mindfulness practice
  • behavioral therapy
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

self‑awareness

Practical Applications

  • track recurring motives to clarify true intent

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing intention alter behavior?
  • Can intention be measured objectively?
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