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Action Quote by Milan Kundera

“...no one can do a thing about feelings, they exist and there's no way to censor them. We can reproach ourselves for some action, for a remark, but not for a feeling, quite simply because we have no control at all over it.” quote by Milan Kundera
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“...no one can do a thing about feelings, they exist and there's no way to censor them. We can reproach ourselves for some action, for a remark, but not for a feeling, quite simply because we have no control at all over it.”

Milan Kundera

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera, 1984

Feelings are involuntary and cannot be judged; actions are controllable and accountable.

In simple terms: Feelings happen, actions are choices.

Key Takeaway

Accept feelings, focus on responsible actions.

Themes

autonomy responsibility emotion control

Mood

introspective philosophical

Type

ethical psychological

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • public statements
  • legal judgments
  • emotional regulation

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology free will

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you separate feeling from action?
  • How do you hold yourself accountable for feelings?
A Different Perspective

Feelings may be used to excuse harmful behavior.

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