Action Quote by Nomy Arpaly
“I don't think any of my desires or beliefs or other mental states are external to me. Many people will occasionally feel alienated from the motives for an action - "whatever possessed me to do that?". Note, however, that some people feel alienated from the white hairs that recently appeared on their heads - "who put them there?", they might ask the mirror - but the white hairs are still theirs. Similarly, I might feel alienated from an action or a mental state because it does not fit with my visceral self - image.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Self, Self- Knowledge, Nomy Arpaly, 2007
We often experience a sense of alienation from our own thoughts or actions when they feel incongruent with our inner self, yet these mental states remain fundamentally ours.
In simple terms: We can feel detached from our own thoughts or actions, but they are still part of us.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that alienation is a feeling, not evidence of external ownership.
Themes
self
identity
psychology
alienation
introspection
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
psychological
personal.
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal reflection
- moral decision making
- creative work
Key Concepts
self‑knowledge
agency
cognitive dissonance
embodiment
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner conflicts cause you to feel detached from your actions?
- How can you reconcile visceral self‑image with unexpected thoughts?
A Different Perspective
Alienation can be a sign of deeper conflict, not necessarily a loss of ownership.
