Skip to content

Nowadays not even a suicide kills himself in desperation…

“Nowadays not even a suicide kills himself in desperation. Before taking the step he deliberates so long and so carefully that he literally chokes with thought. It is even questionable whether he ought to be called a suicide, since it is really thought which takes his life. He does not die with…” quote by Soren Kierkegaard
Download Open image
“Nowadays not even a suicide kills himself in desperation. Before taking the step he deliberates so long and so carefully that he literally chokes with thought. It is even questionable whether he ought to be called a suicide, since it is really thought which takes his life. He does not die with deliberation but from deliberation.”

Soren Kierkegaard

About This Quote

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

Excessive overthinking can become self‑destructive, turning contemplation into a form of death.

In simple terms: Too much thinking can kill you.

Key Takeaway

Beware of paralysis by analysis.

Themes

existentialism psychology death decisionmaking

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • mental health crises
  • ethical dilemmas
  • career choices
  • relationship decisions

Key Concepts

nihilism self‑destruction deliberation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does over‑analysis affect your well‑being?
  • When is deliberation harmful?
A Different Perspective

Thought alone cannot replace action; sometimes action is necessary despite uncertainty.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Soren Kierkegaard

Explore all 462 Soren Kierkegaard quotes

More Choke quotes

Browse all 440 Choke quotes