As a kitten does what all other kittens do, so a child…
“As a kitten does what all other kittens do, so a child wants to do what other children do, with a wanting that is as powerful as it is mindless. Since we human beings have to learn what we do, we have to start out that way, but human mindfulness begins where that wish to be the same leaves off.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Children imitate peers; mindfulness emerges when we move beyond mere imitation.
In simple terms: Mindfulness follows after copying others.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate conscious individuality.
Themes
growth
mindfulness
imitation
learning
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
psychological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- parenting
- team building
- personal development
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
social learning
consciousness
identity formation
Questions to Reflect On
- When did you stop copying others?
- How does mindfulness change behavior?
A Different Perspective
Imitation can hinder creativity.