Analog Quote by Julian Jaynes
“We have said that consciousness is an operation rather than a thing, a repository, or a function. It operates by way of analogy, by way of constructing an analog space with an analog 'I' that can observe that space, and move metaphorically in it. It operates on any reactivity, excerpts relevant aspects, narratizes and conciliates them together in a metaphorical space where such meanings can be manipulated like things in space.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind, 1976
Consciousness is described as a dynamic process that creates an analog space for observation and metaphorical movement, rather than a static entity.
In simple terms: Consciousness works like a flexible, metaphorical tool.
Key Takeaway
Treat thoughts as manipulable constructs.
Themes
philosophy
mind
metaphor
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
theoretical
analytical
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- psychology research
- meditation practice
- problem solving
Key Concepts
consciousness
analogical reasoning
self‑observation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does viewing consciousness as an operation change self‑understanding?
- What limits arise when treating thoughts as objects?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the role of embodied experience.
![“There are historical analogs, which are not exact, of course, but are close enough to be worrisome. This is a whiff of early Nazi Germany. [Adolf] Hitler was appealing to groups with similar grievances, and giving them crazy answers, but at least they were answers; these groups weren't getting…” quote by Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/081/noam-chomsky-42_analog_there-are-historical-analogs-which-are-n_19392.jpg)
