Be brave Quote by Ottessa Moshfegh
“Sometimes I think I'm a nihilist because it doesn't matter, none of this matters. We're all following the will of some unknowable higher power, probably the stars manipulating our cellular magnets. We think we have all this agency, but do we? Do we really? Can you choose to be brave when you were born a coward? Can we be deprogrammed from the brainwashing that we grew up in? I think we can, but I think we need a lot of help.”
About This Quote
The speaker questions personal agency, suggesting that free will may be an illusion shaped by unseen forces, yet sees potential for change with external support.
In simple terms: Explores free will vs determinism.
Key Takeaway
We may be constrained, but can seek help to change.
Themes
existentialism
determinism
agency
self‑improvement
cosmic insignificance
Mood
reflective
skeptical
hopeful
Type
philosophical
personal
When to use this quote
- feeling trapped by upbringing
- contemplating destiny
- seeking personal growth
- questioning moral responsibility
Key Concepts
free will
illusion of control
psychological conditioning
social influence
Practical Applications
- therapy or counseling
- philosophical self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports true free will?
- How does belief in determinism affect moral choices?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that recognizing constraints can empower agency rather than diminish it.
![“[T]he worst kind of nihilist—the kind who isn't even aware he's a nihilist.” quote by David Foster Wallace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d60/david-foster-wallace-161_nihilist_t-he-worst-kind-of-nihilist-the-kind-who_544273.jpg)
![“What's inspiring me the most [is] injustice. My own growth as a member of the human race, in terms of the veils being lifted, seeing more of the beauty and also the horror. A sense of my own purpose in this life. Love...” quote by Ottessa Moshfegh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/58d/ottessa-moshfegh-8200_growth_what-s-inspiring-me-the-most-is-injustic_380747.jpg)
![“Before [Hindus and Moslems] dare think of freedom, they must be brave enough to love one another, to tolerate one another's religion, even prejudices and superstitions, and to trust one another. This requires faith in oneself.” quote by Mahatma Gandhi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fd7/mahatma-gandhi-23_be-brave_before-hindus-and-moslems-dare-think-of_68442.jpg)
