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Antidepressants Quote by Christopher Hitchens

“Even if it were possible to cast my horoscope in this one life, and to make an accurate prediction about my future, it would not be possible to 'show' it to me because as soon as I saw it my future would change by definition. This is why Werner Heisenberg's adaptation of the Hays Office—the…” quote by Christopher Hitchens
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““Even if it were possible to cast my horoscope in this one life, and to make an accurate prediction about my future, it would not be possible to 'show' it to me because as soon as I saw it my future would change by definition. This is why Werner Heisenberg's adaptation of the Hays Office—the so-called principle of uncertainty whereby the act of measuring something has the effect of altering the measurement—is of such importance. In my case the difference is often made by publicity. For example, and to boast of one of my few virtues, I used to derive pleasure from giving my time to bright young people who showed promise as writers and who asked for my help. Then some profile of me quoted someone who disclosed that I liked to do this. Then it became something widely said of me, whereupon it became almost impossible for me to go on doing it, because I started to receive far more requests than I could respond to, let alone satisfy. Perception modifies reality: when I abandoned the smoking habit of more than three decades I was given a supposedly helpful pill called Wellbutrin. But as soon as I discovered that this was the brand name for an antidepressant, I tossed the bottle away. There may be successful methods for overcoming the blues but for me they cannot include a capsule that says: 'Fool yourself into happiness, while pretending not to do so.' I should actually want my mind to be strong enough to circumvent such a trick.””

Christopher Hitchens

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Christopher Hitchens Podcast, 2011

Our expectations and labels can change outcomes; knowing a prediction can alter the predicted reality, limiting authentic action.

In simple terms: Knowing a forecast can change the future.

Key Takeaway

Beware of self‑fulfilling prophecies.

Themes

psychology self‑fulfilling prophecy perception agency identity

Mood

reflective cautious analytical

Type

philosophical advice personal.

When to use this quote

  • career mentorship
  • health decisions
  • public image management
  • personal habit changes

Key Concepts

quantum uncertainty social influence self‑concept behavioral economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does awareness of a label affect your behavior?
  • Can you maintain authenticity when others define you?
A Different Perspective

If you disclose a strength, demand may become overwhelmed, limiting its practice.

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