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Active Quote by Oliver Sacks

“It seems that the brain always has to be active, and if the auditory parts of the brain are not getting sufficient input, then they may start to create hallucinatory sounds on their own. Although it is curious that they do not usually create noises or voices; they create music.” quote by Oliver Sacks
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“It seems that the brain always has to be active, and if the auditory parts of the brain are not getting sufficient input, then they may start to create hallucinatory sounds on their own. Although it is curious that they do not usually create noises or voices; they create music.”

Oliver Sacks

About This Quote

Source Book: Hallucinations, 2012

The brain fills auditory gaps with music when lacking external sound.

In simple terms: Brain creates music when hearing is absent.

Key Takeaway

Provide balanced auditory input to prevent unwanted hallucinations.

Themes

neuroscience auditory perception hallucination

Mood

curious clinical

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • quiet workspaces
  • sleep environments
  • clinical settings
  • creative composition

Key Concepts

brain plasticity sensory deprivation music therapy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sounds do you notice in silence?
  • Can music be used therapeutically to calm the brain?
A Different Perspective

Music hallucinations can be distressing for some.

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