Ambiguity Quote by Soren Kierkegaard
“The individual (no matter how well-meaning he might be, no matter how much strength he might have, if only he would use it) does not have the passion to rip himself away from either the coils of Reflection or the seductive ambiguities of Reflection; nor do the surroundings and times have any events or passions, but rather provide a negative setting of a habit of reflection, which plays with some illusory project only to betray him in the end with a way out: it shows him that the most clever thing to do is nothing at all.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Essay: "The Concept of Anxiety", 1844
Over‑reflection can trap one in indecision, making in to be the most rational choice.
In simple terms: Too much thinking leads to inaction.
Act despite doubts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career choices
- creative projects
- personal dilemmas
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When has over‑thinking cost you?
- Can some reflection be beneficial?
Action may lead to mistakes; reflection has value.