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About this quote

What does it mean?
Freud warns that confronting the darkest aspects of human nature inevitably leaves one scarred.
In plain terms
Facing the worst parts of human nature will hurt you in the process.
What can you take from it?
Exploring deep human darkness requires accepting personal cost.

Where it applies

  • research
  • therapy
  • self-inquiry

Putting it to work

  • prepare for emotional toll
  • acknowledge limits of inquiry

Questions to consider

  • What is the price of truth?
  • Can we study darkness without being changed?

Another view

Not everyone engaging with difficult topics suffers permanent harm.

More from Sigmund Freud

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  2. Conscience is the internal perception of the rejection of a particular wish operating within us.

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  3. I do not in the least underestimate bisexuality. . . I expect it to provide all further enlightenment.

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