Absolutes Quote by Soren Kierkegaard
“Irony is the birth-pangs of the objective mind (based upon the misrelationship, discovered by the I , between existence and the idea of existence). Humor is the birth -pangs of the absolute mind (based upon the misrelationship, discovered by the I , between the I and the idea of the I .”
About This Quote
Source Book: Either/Or by Søren Kierkegaard, 1843
The mind that seeks objective truth experiences tension, while the mind that embraces absolute truth finds humor in that tension.
In simple terms: Objective thinking brings irony; absolute thinking brings humor.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the role of tension in thought.
Themes
philosophy
humor
existentialism
Mood
thoughtful
ironic
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal reflection
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Irony
humor
mind
existence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does irony shape your reasoning?
- Can humor ease existential conflict?
A Different Perspective
Humor may not resolve existential tension.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
