Books Quote by Alan W. Watts
““Being “high” on LSD and “drunk” on bourbon. True, no one in either state should drive a car, but neither should one drive while reading a book, playing a violin, or making love.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: “The Nature of Reality” lecture, 1965
He humorously warns that altered states impair judgment, just like other activities.
In simple terms: Intoxication, whether chemical or mental, impairs safe actions.
Key Takeaway
Avoid risky tasks while impaired.
Themes
responsibility
consciousness
risk
mindfulness
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
humorous
When to use this quote
- driving
- reading
- performing
- intimacy
Key Concepts
altered perception
danger
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it safe to explore altered consciousness?
- How do you differentiate harmful and beneficial mind states?
A Different Perspective
He downplays the nuanced benefits of altered states for creativity.
![“[T]he question "What is everything?" has no meaning, even though it seems to be profound. [...] The point is, perhaps, that I am not looking for a verbal answer, just as when I ask for a kiss, I do not want a piece of paper with "A kiss" written on it. It is rather that metaphysical wonder looks…” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/705/alan-w-watts-9497_curiosity_t-he-question-what-is-everything-has-no_3984.jpg)
![“[T]he world as described is included in but is not the same as the world as it is. As a way of contemplation, it is being aware of life without thinking about it, and then carrying this on even while one is thinking, so that thoughts are not confused with nature.” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1ff/alan-w-watts-9497_life_t-he-world-as-described-is-included-in-b_254933.jpg)
![“[S]een as a whole the universe is a harmony or symbiosis of patterns which cannot exist without each other.” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/782/alan-w-watts-9497_peace_s-een-as-a-whole-the-universe-is-a-harmo_262535.jpg)
