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Diagram Quote by Carlos Castaneda

“The diagram in the ashes had two epicenters; one he called “reason,” the other, “will.” “Reason” was interconnected directly with a point he called “talking.” Through “talking,” “reason” was indirectly connected to three other points, “feeling,” “dreaming,” and “seeing.” The other epicenter…” quote by Carlos Castaneda
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““The diagram in the ashes had two epicenters; one he called “reason,” the other, “will.” “Reason” was interconnected directly with a point he called “talking.” Through “talking,” “reason” was indirectly connected to three other points, “feeling,” “dreaming,” and “seeing.” The other epicenter, “will,” was directly connected to “feeling,” “dreaming,” and “seeing”; but only indirectly to “reason” and “talking.” I remarked that the diagram was different from the one I had recorded years before. “The outer form is of no importance,” he said. “These points represent a human being and can be drawn in any way you want.” “Do they represent the body of a human being?” I asked. “Don’t call it the body” he said. “These are eight points on the fibers of a luminous being. A sorcerer says, as you can see in the diagram, that a human being is, first of all, will, because will is directly connected to three points, feeling, dreaming, and seeing; then next, a human being is reason. This is properly a center that is smaller than will; it is connected only with talking.” “What are the other two points, don Juan?” He looked at me and smiled.””

Carlos Castaneda

About This Quote

Source Book: The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge, 1968

The diagram illustrates how will dominates feeling, dreaming, and seeing, while reason is limited to talking and indirectly linked to those faculties.

In simple terms: Will is primary, reason secondary.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the power of will over thought.

Themes

will reason human nature perception spirituality

Mood

introspective curious

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • spiritual practice
  • mindfulness
  • decision making

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy anthropology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your will influence your emotions?
  • Can you balance will and reason?
A Different Perspective

Will may overlook rational analysis, leading to impulsive actions.

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