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Brain Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“Brain: an apparatus with which we think we think.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“Brain: an apparatus with which we think we think.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Devil’s Dictionary, 1906

The mind is a tool that creates the illusion of self-awareness, but it is itself a construct of thought.

In simple terms: Our thoughts think we think.

Key Takeaway

Question the reality of your mental processes.

Themes

philosophy self‑awareness illusion

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • psychology
  • creative writing
  • mindfulness
  • critical thinking

Key Concepts

metacognition constructivism self‑reference

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing thought as a construct change your behavior?
  • What parts of thinking are not captured by this view?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook the emotional and unconscious aspects of cognition.

4.7 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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