Accounts Quote by William James
“The self-same atoms which, chaotically dispersed, made the nebula, now, jammed and temporarily caught in peculiar positions, form our brains; and the 'evolution' of brains, if understood, would be simply the account of how the atoms came to be so caught and jammed.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Principles of Psychology, 1890
Our brains are formed by atoms that once formed nebulae; understanding this explains consciousness.
In simple terms: Atoms forming nebulae later become brains, explaining consciousness.
Study the material basis of mind.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- science communication
- meditation practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect your sense of self?
- What implications does it have for free will?
Complexity of brain origins can be overwhelming.