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Consciousness Quote by George Steiner

“The inception of human consciousness, the genesis of awareness, must have entailed prolonged 'condensations' around intractable nodes of wonder and terror, at the discriminations to be made between the self and the other, between being and non-being (the discovery of the scandal of death).” quote by George Steiner
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““The inception of human consciousness, the genesis of awareness, must have entailed prolonged 'condensations' around intractable nodes of wonder and terror, at the discriminations to be made between the self and the other, between being and non-being (the discovery of the scandal of death).””

George Steiner

About This Quote

Human consciousness arises from intense focus on profound mysteries, forcing distinctions between self and other, life and death.

In simple terms: Awareness forms around deep, unsettling questions.

Key Takeaway

Explore the unknown to understand yourself.

Themes

philosophy psychology existentialism awareness identity

Mood

thoughtful curious introspective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • creative writing
  • therapy
  • education
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

consciousness otherness death wonder

Questions to Reflect On

  • What “node of wonder” challenges you?
  • How do you differentiate self from other in daily life?
A Different Perspective

The abstract nature can be inaccessible; may alienate some audiences.

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