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Death Quote by Maylis de Kerangal

“The moment of death is no longer to be considered as the moment the heart stops, but as the moment when cerebral function ceases. In other words: I no longer think, therefore I no longer am. The heart is dead, long live the brain—a symbolic coup d’état, a Revolution.” quote by Maylis de Kerangal
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““The moment of death is no longer to be considered as the moment the heart stops, but as the moment when cerebral function ceases. In other words: I no longer think, therefore I no longer am. The heart is dead, long live the brain—a symbolic coup d’état, a Revolution.””

Maylis de Kerangal

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The Heart” (Le Cœur), 2014

Redefines death as the cessation of thought, not just the heart, suggesting identity resides in consciousness.

In simple terms: Death = loss of thought.

Key Takeaway

Value conscious experience.

Themes

death identity consciousness

Mood

introspective philosophical

Type

literary existential

When to use this quote

  • medical ethics
  • end‑of‑life care
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

philosophy of mind existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines personal identity?
  • How does this view influence end‑of‑life decisions?
A Different Perspective

May overlook emotional aspects of physical death.

2.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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