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Do not disturb your mind,” said Imlac, “with other hopes…

“Do not disturb your mind,” said Imlac, “with other hopes or fears than reason may suggest; if you are pleased with the prognostics of good, you will be terrified likewise with tokens of evil, and your whole life will be a prey to superstition.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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““Do not disturb your mind,” said Imlac, “with other hopes or fears than reason may suggest; if you are pleased with the prognostics of good, you will be terrified likewise with tokens of evil, and your whole life will be a prey to superstition.””

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

Reason should guide the mind, avoiding irrational hopes or fears; otherwise superstition dominates life.

In simple terms: Think rationally, not with baseless hopes or fears.

Key Takeaway

Let reason steer your thoughts.

Themes

reason superstition mindfulness philosophy

Mood

thoughtful serious philosophical

Type

maxim advice reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • daily stress
  • life planning

Key Concepts

rationalism emotional regulation ethical living

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can pure reason coexist with healthy emotions?
  • When is intuition valuable?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on reason may ignore emotional needs.

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