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Action Quote by Thomas Hobbes

“As, in Sense, that which is really within us, is (as I have said before) only Motion, caused by the action of external objects, but in appearance; to the Sight, Light and Color; to the Ear, Sound; to the Nostril, Odor,&c.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“As, in Sense, that which is really within us, is (as I have said before) only Motion, caused by the action of external objects, but in appearance; to the Sight, Light and Color; to the Ear, Sound; to the Nostril, Odor,&c.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

Source Book: Leviathan, 1651

Human perception is a mental representation of external motions, translated into senses like sight, sound, and smell.

In simple terms: Our senses interpret external motion as light, sound, color, and odor.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that sensory experience is a mental construct of external actions.

Themes

perception mind sensory experience

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • learning
  • artistic observation
  • scientific research
  • everyday decision making

Key Concepts

empiricism philosophy of mind

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do your senses shape your reality?
  • Can you distinguish between appearance and underlying motion?
A Different Perspective

Sensory data can be misleading without critical analysis.

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