Agents Quote by Thomas Ligotti
“While a modicum of consciousness may have had survivalist properties during an immemorial chapter of our evolution – so one theory goes – this faculty soon enough became a seditious agent working against us … we need to hamper our consciousness for all we are worth or it will impose upon us a too clear vision of what we do not want to see … Consciousness has forced us into the paradoxical position of striving to be unself-conscious of what we are – hunks of spoiling flesh on disintegrating bones”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Paradox of Consciousness, Thomas Ligotti, 1995
Consciousness, once advantageous, now threatens us by revealing uncomfortable truths; we may need to suppress it.
In simple terms: Awareness can be dangerous; we might want to limit it.
Key Takeaway
Consider the cost of too much self‑awareness.
Themes
consciousness
paradox
survival
self‑deception
philosophy
Mood
uneasy
introspective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- mental health
- creative work
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
existential dread
cognitive overload
evolutionary psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths does your consciousness reveal that you wish to ignore?
- Can limiting awareness improve well‑being?
A Different Perspective
Suppressing awareness can lead to loss of insight.
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