Babyhood Quote by Richard Dawkins
“There is an anaesthetic of familiarity, a sedative of ordinariness which dulls the senses and hides the wonder of existence. For those of us not gifted in poetry, it is at least worth while from time to time making an effort to shake off the anaesthetic. What is the best way of countering the sluggish habitutation brought about by our gradual crawl from babyhood? We can't actually fly to another planet. But we can recapture that sense of having just tumbled out to life on a new world by looking at our own world in unfamiliar ways.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins, 2006
Familiarity numbs perception, so seeking novelty revives wonder and awareness.
In simple terms: Routine dulls senses; novelty awakens them.
Key Takeaway
Break habits by viewing familiar things anew.
Themes
curiosity
perception
wonder
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- travel
- art appreciation
- learning new skills
- changing routines
Key Concepts
psychology
mindfulness
creativity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you regularly introduce fresh perspectives?
- What small changes can disrupt routine numbness?
A Different Perspective
Novelty may be fleeting and require effort to sustain.
