Communication Quote by Emmanuel Levinas
““To approach the Other in conversation is to welcome his expression, in which at each instant he overflows the idea a thought would carry away from it. It is therefore to receive from the Other beyond the capacity of the I, which means exactly: to have the idea of infinity. But this also means: to be taught. The relation with the Other, or Conversation, is a non-allergic relation, an ethical relation; but inasmuch as it is welcomed this conversation is a teaching. Teaching is not reducible to maieutics; it comes from the exterior and brings me more than I contain. In its non-violent transitivity the very epiphany of the face is produced.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Totalité et Infini by Emmanuel Levinas, 1961
Conversation with the Other opens us to ideas beyond our own mind, teaching us infinitely and ethically.
In simple terms: Listening to others expands our understanding.
Key Takeaway
Embrace dialogue as a source of learning.
Themes
ethics
dialogue
infinity
teaching
non‑violence
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- education
- conflict resolution
- cross‑cultural exchange
Key Concepts
Otherness
infinite receptivity
ethical relation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we remain open without losing self?
- What barriers prevent genuine teaching?
A Different Perspective
The Other may resist or dominate, limiting true ethical exchange.
![“I will say this quite plainly, what truly human is -and don't be afraid of this word- love. And I mean it even with everything that burdens love or, i could say it better, responsibility is actually love, as Pascal said: 'without concupiscence' [without lust]... love exists without worrying being…” quote by Emmanuel Levinas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/83d/emmanuel-levinas-26126_being-loved_i-will-say-this-quite-plainly-what-truly_532817.jpg)
