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Action Quote by Nomy Arpaly

“Sometimes we deliberate - for example when we plan a long trip or - if we are not math wizards - when we solve long division problems. However, if we deliberated every time we acted we would never get through the day. Most of the time, we act for reasons without deliberation. I am not just talking…” quote by Nomy Arpaly
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“Sometimes we deliberate - for example when we plan a long trip or - if we are not math wizards - when we solve long division problems. However, if we deliberated every time we acted we would never get through the day. Most of the time, we act for reasons without deliberation. I am not just talking about cases of simple, habitual action, like brushing your teeth, but also about more sophisticated action.”

Nomy Arpaly

About This Quote

Source Book: Moral Psychology, Nomy Arpaly, 2006

We often act without conscious deliberation, especially in routine or complex tasks, because constant planning would paralyze us.

In simple terms: Many actions happen automatically without thinking.

Key Takeaway

Accept that not all decisions need deep analysis.

Themes

habit automaticity decision-making efficiency psychology

Mood

pragmatic reflective

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily routines
  • complex problem solving
  • creative work
  • emergency response

Key Concepts

cognitive load habit formation automatic behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do you need to pause and think?
  • How can you balance intuition and analysis?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on habit can lead to mindless errors.

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