Bird Quote by John Churton Collins
“We are no more responsible for the evil thoughts that pass through our minds than a scarecrow for the birds which fly over the seedplot he has to guard. The sole responsibility in each case is to prevent them from settling.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Mind and Its Thoughts, John Churton Collins, 1902
We are not accountable for thoughts themselves, but for acting on them.
In simple terms: We control actions, not thoughts.
Key Takeaway
Focus on preventing harmful thoughts from influencing behavior.
Themes
responsibility
thoughts
control
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- online harassment
- political rhetoric
- personal bias
- mental health
Key Concepts
ethics
cognitive psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms stop harmful thoughts from manifesting?
- Can we truly ignore intrusive thoughts?
A Different Perspective
Thoughts can shape behavior even without conscious intent.
