Power quote by Alan Watts

"But to me nothing - the negative, the empty - is exceedingly powerful"

About this Quote

Alan Watts, a British philosopher understood for analyzing and popularizing Eastern philosophy for Western audiences, presents a thought-provoking point of view in the quote, "However to me absolutely nothing - the unfavorable, the empty - is extremely effective". This assertion brings extensive philosophical implications, challenging traditional Western concepts about worth, existence, and the nature of reality.

In Western cultures, there is frequently a propensity to relate power with product abundance, existence, and fullness. Accomplishments, belongings, and measurable successes are typically viewed as indications of power and progress. Nevertheless, Watts welcomes us to reassess this worldview by highlighting the significance of "absolutely nothing", "the negative", and "the empty". These concepts are central to lots of Eastern viewpoints, particularly in Buddhism and Taoism, where emptiness is not viewed as a void but as a state of potential and liberty.

The idea that "absolutely nothing" is" [exceedingly effective] (https://worldhistoryproject.org)" speaks to the understanding that vacuum enables possibility and transformation. In Zen Buddhism, for instance, the idea of "mu" (nothingness) is a meditation focus, acknowledging that nothingness is a space of unlimited capacity. It is from this state that production, believed, and action can genuinely emerge without bias or prerequisite.

The "unfavorable", as Watts suggests, can hold power because it challenges us to reevaluate our accessories and hostilities. By welcoming negative space or unfavorable states, we can break free from the constraints of our expectations and perceptions, resulting in deeper insight and understanding. Rather than perpetually striving for more, we might find clearness and strength in approval, letting go, and recognizing the transient nature of all things.

Finally, the notion of the empty being powerful aligns with the Taoist concept of wu wei, or uncomplicated action. The empty cup, all set to be filled, is better than one that overruns. This metaphor highlights how welcoming vacuum or letting go of stiff control can cause a more harmonious and adaptable method of engaging with the world.

Through this quote, Alan Watts challenges us to reassess our approach to existence, welcoming us to find strength and capacity in the areas of nothingness, negativity, and emptiness.

More details

TagsPowerful

About the Author

England Flag This quote is written / told by Alan Watts between January 6, 1915 and November 16, 1973. He/she was a famous Philosopher from England, the quote is categorized under the topic Power. The author also have 41 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes

Bodhidharma, Leader