Entire life Quote by Stephen Tobolowsky
![“…I saw that she, that we, had been wrong my entire life. Self-preservation is not the primary instinct. It never was. […] People don’t seek survival. Even if they do, it’s more like an afterthought, like trying to remember to turn into the skid, which is important, but it’s not the primary…” quote by Stephen Tobolowsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/846/stephen-tobolowsky-17312_entire-life_i-saw-that-she-that-we-had-been-wrong-my_2816830.jpg)
““…I saw that she, that we, had been wrong my entire life. Self-preservation is not the primary instinct. It never was. […] People don’t seek survival. Even if they do, it’s more like an afterthought, like trying to remember to turn into the skid, which is important, but it’s not the primary instinct. The real primary instinct is transcendence. More than safety, more than happiness, we are driven to reach beyond ourselves, even if it means our own destruction.””
About This Quote
Transcendence, not survival, drives humans to seek meaning beyond safety and happiness.
In simple terms: Beyond survival, we seek transcendence.
Key Takeaway
Pursue meaning beyond basic needs.
Themes
meaning
transcendence
human nature
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- artistic creation
- spiritual practice
- risk‑taking
- leadership
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What transcendent goals motivate you?
- How does risk relate to purpose?
A Different Perspective
Survival instincts still dominate many decisions.
