Prejudice of any kind implies that you are identified with the thinking mind. It means you don’t see the other human being anymore, but only your own concept of that human being.To reduce the aliveness of another human being to a concept is already a form of violence.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote delves into the destructive nature of prejudice and highlights its underlying psychological mechanism. Prejudice arises when we categorize and judge others based on superficial characteristics such as their race, religion, gender, or social background. It stems from a fixation on our own conceptualizations and preconceived notions, blinding us to the unique and multifaceted nature of each human being.
The quote suggests that prejudice emerges when we are overly identified with our thinking mind. When we reduce another person to a narrow concept or stereotype, we fail to recognize their inherent worth and the richness of their individuality. This reduction of someone's aliveness to a mere concept dehumanizes them and perpetuates a form of violence, albeit psychological in nature.
To overcome prejudice, it is crucial to cultivate a heightened awareness of our own thought patterns and biases. We can question our assumptions, challenge societal conditioning, and foster a genuine curiosity about others. By recognizing the inherent dignity and complexity of every human being, we can move beyond prejudice and embrace diversity, fostering inclusivity, understanding, and harmony in our interactions and society as a whole.
This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeing beyond our conceptualizations and embracing the full aliveness and humanity of others. By transcending our preconceived notions and prejudices, we can nurture a culture of acceptance, empathy, and respect, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and compassionate world.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Prejudice of any kind implies that you are identified with the thinking mind. It means you don't see the other human being anymore, but only your own concept of that human being.To reduce the aliveness of another human being to a concept is already a form of violence." was said by Eckhart Tolle (Bio / Quotes). Eckhart Tolle is a spiritual teacher and author who is best known for his book "The Power of Now.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
