Consciousness Quote by Alan Wilson Watts
““This, then, is the human problem: there is a price to be paid for every increase in consciousness. We cannot be more sensitive to pleasure without being more sensitive to pain. By remembering the past we can plan for the future. But the ability to plan for the future is offset by the "ability" to dread pain and to fear of the unknown. Furthermore, the growth of an acute sense of the past and future gives us a corresponding dim sense of the present. In other words, we seem to reach a point where the advantages of being conscious are outweighed by its disadvantages, where extreme sensitivity makes us unadaptable.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Consciousness, 1970s
Higher consciousness brings greater sensitivity to both pleasure and pain, making present‑moment awareness harder and sometimes leading to paralysis by over‑analysis.
In simple terms: Awareness heightens joy and suffering, often at the cost of living now.
Key Takeaway
Balance insight with present focus.
Themes
consciousness
pain
pleasure
present
over‑analysis
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- decision making
- therapy
- creative work
- stress management
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you stay aware without becoming overwhelmed?
- What practices help you anchor in the present?
A Different Perspective
Too much focus on past and future can cause anxiety and indecision.
