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Psychology Quote by Virginia Wolff

“All thinking (is) an effort to make thought escape from the thinker's mind past all obstacles as completely as possible: all society is an attempt to seise and influence and coerce each thought as it appears and force it to yield to another.” quote by Virginia Wolff
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““All thinking (is) an effort to make thought escape from the thinker's mind past all obstacles as completely as possible: all society is an attempt to seise and influence and coerce each thought as it appears and force it to yield to another.””

Virginia Wolff

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Nature of Thought, 1995

Thought tries to escape mental constraints; society seeks to capture, shape, and control each idea as it arises.

In simple terms: Thought wants freedom; society wants control.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and protect mental autonomy.

Themes

freedom control thought society

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • academic research
  • personal reflection
  • political activism

Key Concepts

psychology social influence censorship

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you safeguard your own thoughts?
  • What role should society play in shaping ideas?
A Different Perspective

Societal pressures can stifle creativity and dissent.

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