Apparently the rise of consciousness is linked to certain kinds of privation. It is the bitterness of self-consciousness that we knowers know best. Critical of the illusions that sustained mankind in earlier times, this self-consciousness of ours does little to sustain us now. The question is: which is disenchanted, the world itself or the consciousness we have of it?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Consciousness often grows from suffering and self-awareness. We question the world more now but lose the illusions that once sustained us.
- In plain terms
- Being self-aware comes from hardship and makes life harder by removing comforting illusions.
- What can you take from it?
- Self-consciousness brings clarity but removes comforting illusions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is truth always better?
- Does pain make us smarter?
Another view
Illusions are not always bad if they help people function.
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