The lapse of time during which a given event has not…
““The lapse of time during which a given event has not happened, is, in this logic of habit, constantly alleged as a reason why the event should never happen, even when the lapse of time is precisely the added condition which makes the event imminent. A man will tell you that he has worked in a mine for forty years unhurt by an accident as a reason why he should apprehend no danger, though the roof is beginning to sink; and it is often observable, that the older a man gets, the more difficult it is to him to retain a believing conception of his own death.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Habitual rationalizations delay confronting mortality, leading to complacency.
In simple terms: We ignore death by making excuses.
Key Takeaway
Face mortality honestly.
Themes
mortality
habit
rationalization
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- aging
- risk assessment
- personal safety
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront your mortality?
- What habits mask fear of death?
A Different Perspective
Denial can cause unpreparedness.