Belief Quote by William S. Burroughs
“Belief is a meaningless word. What does it mean? I believe something. Okay, now you have someone who is hearing voices and believes in these voices. It doesn't mean they have any necessary reality. Your whole concept of your "I" is an illusion. You have to give something called an "I" before you speak of what the "I" believes.”
About This Quote
The concept of belief is empty without a concrete self; "I" must exist before beliefs can be meaningful.
In simple terms: Belief needs a defined self to matter.
Define self before forming beliefs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- mental health
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines the "I" in your experience?
- Can belief exist without identity?
Belief can be meaningful without a fixed self.