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Consciousness Quote by Terry Pratchett

“First Thoughts are the everyday thoughts. Everyone has those. Second Thoughts are the thoughts you think about the way you think. People who enjoy thinking have those. Third Thoughts are thoughts that watch the world and think all by themselves. They’re rare, and often troublesome. Listening to…” quote by Terry Pratchett
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“First Thoughts are the everyday thoughts. Everyone has those. Second Thoughts are the thoughts you think about the way you think. People who enjoy thinking have those. Third Thoughts are thoughts that watch the world and think all by themselves. They’re rare, and often troublesome. Listening to them is part of witchcraft.”

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Colour of Magic, Terry Pratchett, 1983

Thought layers range from mundane to meta, with the highest level being rare and magical.

In simple terms: Higher thoughts are rare and powerful.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate meta‑thinking.

Themes

cognition creativity metacognition

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • problem solving
  • writing
  • meditation
  • innovation

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When did you notice a meta‑thought?
  • How can you balance everyday and higher thinking?
A Different Perspective

Meta‑thoughts can be overwhelming.

2.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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