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In the magical universe there are no coincidences and…

“In the magical universe there are no coincidences and there are no accidents. Nothing happens unless someone wills it to happen. The dogma of science is that the will cannot possibly affect external forces, and I think that’s just ridiculous. It’s as bad as the church. My viewpoint is the exact…” quote by William S. Burroughs
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“In the magical universe there are no coincidences and there are no accidents. Nothing happens unless someone wills it to happen. The dogma of science is that the will cannot possibly affect external forces, and I think that’s just ridiculous. It’s as bad as the church. My viewpoint is the exact contrary of the scientific viewpoint. I believe that if you run into somebody in the street it’s for a reason.”

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

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

The quote asserts that everything is purposeful, rejecting scientific materialism and claiming that will influences external events.

In simple terms: All events are intentional, not random.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal agency in daily encounters.

Themes

purpose will science vs belief determinism

Mood

reflective skeptical inquisitive

Type

philosophical critical contemplative

When to use this quote

  • meeting strangers
  • making decisions
  • creative projects
  • overcoming skepticism

Key Concepts

philosophy metaphysics free will

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see patterns where others see chance?
  • How does belief in purpose affect your actions?
A Different Perspective

Scientific evidence shows many events are random and not driven by will.

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