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Desire Quote by Yuval Noah Harari

“Gautama’s insight was that no matter what the mind experiences, it usually reacts with craving, and craving always involves dissatisfaction. When the mind experiences something distasteful it craves to be rid of the irritation. When the mind experiences something pleasant, it craves that the…” quote by Yuval Noah Harari
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““Gautama’s insight was that no matter what the mind experiences, it usually reacts with craving, and craving always involves dissatisfaction. When the mind experiences something distasteful it craves to be rid of the irritation. When the mind experiences something pleasant, it craves that the pleasure will remain and will intensify. Therefore, the mind is always dissatisfied and restless. This is very clear when we experience unpleasant things, such as pain. As long as the pain continues, we are dissatisfied and do all we can to avoid it. Yet even when we experience pleasant things we are never content.””

Yuval Noah Harari

About This Quote

Source Lecture: The Future of Humanity, 2023

The mind's constant craving leads to perpetual dissatisfaction, whether facing pain or pleasure, driving endless restlessness.

In simple terms: Craving creates endless discontent.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and temper cravings.

Themes

desire dissatisfaction mindfulness

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

inspirational educational

When to use this quote

  • stress management
  • meditation
  • consumer behavior
  • habit formation

Key Concepts

Buddhist psychology behavioral economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can mindfulness reduce craving?
  • Can acceptance of impermanence bring peace?
A Different Perspective

Complete elimination of craving may be unrealistic.

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