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To be obsessed by the idea of freedom, for instance, is…

“To be obsessed by the idea of freedom, for instance, is itself a form of slavery. Such people are in the chains of the hope of freedom, and are therefore able to do little else than struggle with them.” quote by Idries Shah
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“To be obsessed by the idea of freedom, for instance, is itself a form of slavery. Such people are in the chains of the hope of freedom, and are therefore able to do little else than struggle with them.”

Idries Shah

About This Quote

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

Obsessing over freedom creates a mental cage, limiting action to endless yearning.

In simple terms: Freedom obsession traps you.

Key Takeaway

Avoid fixation, focus on tangible actions.

Themes

freedom obsession mental constraints

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • personal goals
  • social movements

Key Concepts

psychology paradox self‑limitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What freedoms do you chase without acting?
  • How can you balance desire with action?
A Different Perspective

It can ignore practical steps toward actual liberty.

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