Bits Quote by D.T. Suzuki
“Thought creates things by slicing up reality into small bits that it can easily grasp. Thus when you are think-ing you are thing-ing. Thought does not report things, it distorts reality to create things, and as Bergson noted, "In so doing it allows what is the very essence of the real to escape." Thus to the extent we actually imagine a world of discrete and separate things, conceptions have become perceptions, and we have in this manner populated our universe with nothing but ghosts.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays in Zen Buddhism, D.T. Suzuki, 1934
Thought fragments reality into manageable pieces, shaping perception and creating constructs that may diverge from the true essence of existence.
In simple terms: Thought breaks reality into bits, creating distorted ideas.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question mental fragments.
Themes
philosophy
perception
reality
mindfulness
Mood
contemplative
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- problem solving
- meditation
- design thinking
Key Concepts
Zen
Bergson
constructivism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your mental categories limit your view?
- Can you experience reality without conceptual filters?
A Different Perspective
Thought can mislead, causing us to miss holistic truth.
![“Brad [Dourif] would tell himself that he was not intentionally trying to mimic Jack Nicholson in any way. I think that actually bothers him a little bit. I just think maybe they have similar voices.” quote by David Kirschner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cfe/david-kirschner-22403_bits_brad-dourif-would-tell-himself-that-he-w_478.jpg)
