Conscious Quote by W. H. Auden
“It is axiomatic that we should all think of ourselves as being more sensitive than other people because, when we are insensitive in our dealings with others, we cannot be aware of it at the time; conscious insensitivity is a self-contradiction.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Unknown Citizen” (or general poetry), 1939
Being overly sensitive to others' feelings can blind us to our own insensitivity, creating a paradox where we cannot recognize our own harshness.
In simple terms: Thinking we’re more sensitive can hide our own insensitivity.
Key Takeaway
Check your own behavior, not just others’.
Themes
empathy
self-awareness
paradox
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace interactions
- conflict resolution
- team leadership
Key Concepts
psychology
ethical behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever assume you’re more sensitive than others?
- How can you recognize your own insensitivity?
A Different Perspective
Self‑sensitivity can become a shield that prevents honest self‑critique.
![“Pure sensism leads inevitably to universal doubt; if reality is in the end reducible to sensible appearance, then, since this is in a state of perpetual flux and self-contradiction, no kind of certitude will any longer be possible. [...] Truth is necessary and immutable; but in the sensible order…” quote by Étienne Gilson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e5c/etienne-gilson-21565_reality_pure-sensism-leads-inevitably-to-univers_1728131.jpg)
