Action Quote by Richard Shusterman
“Improved perception of our somatic feelings not only gives us greater knowledge of ourselves but also enables greater somatic skill, facility, and range of movement that can afford our sensory organs greater scope in giving us knowledge of the world. Besides augmenting our own possibilities of pleasure , such improved somatic functioning and awareness can give us greater power in performing virtuous acts for the benefit of others, since all action somehow depends on the efficacy of our bodily instrument.”
About This Quote
Source Book: *The Body: A Guide for Occupants* by Richard Shusterman, 2000
Understanding and refining bodily sensations enhances self‑knowledge and expands physical capability, which in turn supports ethical actions that benefit others.
In simple terms: Better body awareness improves self‑knowledge and moral action.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate somatic awareness for personal and social growth.
Themes
self‑awareness
embodiment
ethics
skill development
Mood
reflective
inspired
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- mind‑body practices
- physical therapy
- performance arts
- community service
Key Concepts
phenomenology
embodied cognition
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does bodily awareness influence your ethical choices?
- What practices deepen both skill and virtue?
A Different Perspective
Improved somatic skill may not automatically translate into virtuous behavior without intentional moral reflection.
![“It was a lot of fun to play a character [in Swiss Army Man] with no inhibitions, and with no knowledge of the world, and who comes into the world kind of like a blank slate. It means there's no template or blueprint for how you need to play certain scenes.” quote by Daniel Radcliffe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/75b/daniel-radcliffe-919_army_it-was-a-lot-of-fun-to-play-a-character_535953.jpg)
