David Bohm, a world-renowned physicist, philosopher, and theoretical scientist, left us with a profound legacy of ideas and insights. His quotes continue to inspire and challenge our conventional thinking, unlocking new possibilities for understanding the nature of reality, consciousness, and the universe itself.
With his groundbreaking work in quantum physics and his deep interest in exploring the interconnectedness of everything, David Bohm’s quotes offer a unique perspective on life, the mind, and the mysteries of existence. His words have the power to ignite our curiosity, expand our awareness, and spark transformative change.
“The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.” This powerful quote from David Bohm reminds us of the value of open-mindedness and creativity. It suggests that our ability to see beyond our preconceived notions and think outside the box is essential for true learning and growth.
“Thought is creating divisions out of itself and then saying that they are there naturally.” In this thought-provoking quote, Bohm challenges us to question the limitations imposed by our own thinking. He suggests that our thoughts often create artificial divisions, and by recognizing this, we can begin to dissolve the boundaries that separate us from one another and the world.
As you dive deeper into the wisdom of David Bohm’s quotes, prepare to embark on a journey of intellectual exploration and self-discovery. His insights have the potential to awaken new perspectives, challenge long-held beliefs, and lead us towards a greater understanding of ourselves and the universe we inhabit.
Best David Bohm Quotes
1. “The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.”
2. “The meaning of life is to see.”
3. “The ability to be aware of our own thinking is what distinguishes us from other animals.”
4. “Thought creates the world and then says ‘I didn’t do it’.”
5. “The difficulty is this: we have established no means of transmitting the knowledge we have gained from our experiences into our daily lives.”
6. “Reality is what we take to be true. What we take to be true is what we believe. What we believe is based upon our perceptions. What we perceive depends upon what we look for. What we look for depends upon what we think. What we think depends upon what we perceive. What we perceive determines what we believe. What we believe determines what we take to be true. What we take to be true is our reality.”
7. “In order to truly listen, you must be willing to be changed by what you hear.”
8. “What is needed is a realization that power without love is reckless and abusive, and love without power is sentimental and anemic.”
9. “The mind is like a muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets.”
10. “The whole process of education should be to help people discover their own individuality, their own intelligence, and their own happiness.”
11. “Dialogue is not an attempt to change the other person or to convince them of your point of view. It is a space where we can suspend our assumptions and judgments in order to inquire into each other’s ideas, thoughts, and perspectives.”
12. “Thought is creating divisions out of itself and then saying that they are there naturally.”
13. “The real issue is not whether you love your neighbors as yourself, but whether you can love yourself enough to be able to love your neighbors.”
14. “The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem.”
15. “In order to understand the world, we need to question our own beliefs and assumptions. Only through this process of self-inquiry can we discover the truth.”
Inspirational Sayings and Thoughts
David Bohm was a renowned physicist and philosopher who had many insightful thoughts and sayings throughout his life. His ideas often challenged conventional thinking and inspired others to question the nature of reality. Here are some of his most inspirational sayings and thoughts:
- “Thought is creating divisions out of itself and then saying that they are there naturally.”
- “The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.”
- “Theoretical physics is beautiful and inspiring, but the practical aspects of life are where the real learning happens.”
- “Dialogue is the art of thinking together.”
- “It is the function of consciousness not only to recognize and assimilate the external world through the gateway of the senses but to translate into visible reality the world within us.”
- “True creativity arises from stillness and silence.”
- “The future is not what it used to be.”
- “The ability to be aware of the present moment without judgment is the ultimate form of intelligence.”
- “Inquiry is not a technique, but a way of being that brings harmony and understanding.”
- “The individual is an eternal process, not a fixed entity.”
These inspirational sayings and thoughts from David Bohm encourage us to think critically, question our assumptions, and open our minds to new possibilities. They remind us to embrace the process of learning and the importance of being present in the moment. David Bohm’s philosophy continues to inspire people to seek deeper understanding and connection in their lives.
The Creative Process:
The creative process is a mysterious and paradoxical journey that is unique to each individual. It is a deeply personal exploration of the unknown, where ideas and inspiration flow freely. David Bohm, a renowned physicist and philosopher, believed that creativity is an essential part of human life, and that it is a fundamental aspect of the universe itself.
According to Bohm, creativity is not limited to art or scientific discovery; it is a way of being, a way of engaging with the world. It is a state of mind in which one is open to new possibilities, willing to question and challenge existing beliefs, and able to see connections and patterns that others may overlook.
In his book “On Creativity,” Bohm wrote, “I think that what is required is the realization that creativity is an intrinsic part of the universe, not something that humans possess or don’t possess.” He believed that every person has the potential for creativity, and that it can be nurtured and developed through practice and self-reflection.
Bohm also emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration in the creative process. He believed that by engaging in open and honest conversations with others, we can share ideas, challenge assumptions, and co-create new possibilities. He wrote, “Dialogue is the art of thinking together, of making meaning together.”
The creative process is not always easy or linear. It can be messy, uncertain, and unpredictable. It requires courage to take risks, to explore the unknown, and to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth. As Bohm put it, “In your creative process, do not be afraid to make mistakes, to question, to doubt. Embrace the unknown and trust in the journey.”
In conclusion, the creative process is a profound and transformative experience that allows us to tap into our innate capacity for imagination, innovation, and self-expression. It is a journey of self-discovery, a way of connecting with ourselves and with the world around us. As David Bohm said, “Creativity is the process of bringing the new into being, of giving form to that which has not yet been.”
On Understanding:
Understanding is not just a matter of amassing information or knowledge. It is a deeper process of insight and awareness that goes beyond the accumulation of facts and figures. True understanding involves connecting the dots, seeing patterns, and discerning the underlying principles that govern the world.
When we truly understand something, we are able to see the bigger picture and grasp the interconnectedness of all things. We become aware of the subtle nuances and complexities that may not be immediately apparent. This kind of understanding allows us to make better decisions, solve problems more effectively, and navigate the challenges of life with greater wisdom.
However, understanding is not something that can be achieved overnight or acquired through passive consumption. It requires active engagement, curiosity, and a willingness to question our assumptions. It requires us to be open to new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities.
David Bohm once said, “Insight is not a matter of extraordinary mental powers, nor does it require a special intellectual capacity. It is the capacity to see things as they are without distortion.” This quote perfectly captures the essence of understanding – the ability to see things clearly and accurately, without clouding our perception with preconceived notions or biases.
In order to cultivate a deeper understanding, we must be willing to engage in deep listening, thoughtful reflection, and meaningful dialogue. We must be willing to challenge our own beliefs and be open to changing our minds. We must approach every situation with a sense of curiosity and wonder, always seeking to learn and grow.
Ultimately, understanding is not a destination but a lifelong journey. It is a process of continuous learning and growth that has the power to transform our lives and the world around us. As David Bohm said, “The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.”
Meaning and Wholeness:
David Bohm believed that meaning and wholeness are fundamental aspects of reality. He argued that reality is not fragmented but rather interconnected and interdependent. According to Bohm, true understanding can only arise from a holistic perspective that considers the connections between different aspects of existence.
Bohm’s concept of meaning goes beyond superficial definitions and explanations. He saw meaning as a deep sense of significance and purpose that emerges from the interconnectedness of the world. Meaning, for Bohm, is not something fixed or predetermined, but rather something that is constantly evolving and dynamic.
In his book “Wholeness and the Implicate Order,” Bohm examines the idea of wholeness as an essential component of reality. He argues that wholeness is not just a sum of its parts, but rather a deeper level of coherence and unity that underlies all existence.
According to Bohm, our perception of reality is often limited by our fragmented thinking. We tend to see things in isolation, without recognizing the interconnectedness that exists. By cultivating a sense of wholeness in our lives, we can foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
| “Reality is what we take to be true. What we take to be true is what we believe. What we believe is based upon our perceptions. What we perceive depends upon what we look for. What we look for depends upon what we think. What we think depends upon what we perceive. What we perceive determines what we believe. What we believe determines what we take to be true. What we take to be true is our reality.” |
| – David Bohm |
Bohm’s insights on meaning and wholeness encourage us to question our assumptions and look beyond the surface level of reality. By embracing a holistic perspective, we can strive for a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world we inhabit.
On Learning:
Learning is not the accumulation of knowledge, but rather the discovery of new possibilities. It is a process of active exploration and inquiry, where we constantly challenge our assumptions and beliefs. When we truly learn, we are open and receptive, willing to question our own ideas and perspectives.
Learning is not a passive activity, but an active engagement with the world. It requires focus, attention, and an open mind. It is not just about memorizing facts, but about understanding and making connections between different areas of knowledge.
True learning is transformative. It changes the way we think, the way we see the world, and the way we engage with others. It opens up new possibilities and expands our horizons. It challenges us to grow and evolve.
Learning is a lifelong journey. It is not something that ends with a degree or a certification. It is a continuous process of growth and development. We never stop learning, and we never reach a point where we know everything.
Learning is not always easy. It requires effort, persistence, and a willingness to fail. It involves stepping out of our comfort zone and embracing the unknown. But it is through this struggle that we truly learn and grow.
In the end, learning is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about becoming a better version of ourselves. It is about discovering our true potential and living our lives to the fullest.
“The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.”
– David Bohm
On Perception:
“The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained.”
“Perception is not just a simple act of seeing, but rather a complex and dynamic process that involves the interpretation of sensory input.”
“Our perception is often clouded by our preconceived notions and beliefs, which can limit our ability to see things as they truly are.”
“To truly understand someone or something, we must be willing to step outside of our own perspective and see the world through their eyes.”
“Perception is not a passive process, but an active one. We have the power to actively shape our perception and change the way we see the world.”
“Our perception is shaped by our experiences, emotions, and beliefs. By changing these factors, we can change our perception of the world around us.”
“Perception can be deceptive. What we see may not always be what is truly there. It is important to question and critically analyze our perceptions.”
“Perception is not just limited to our physical senses. It also includes our thoughts, emotions, and intuition.”
“We should not solely rely on our perception to make judgments and decisions. It is important to gather information, analyze it critically, and consider different perspectives.”
“Perception is a powerful tool that can either limit or expand our understanding of the world. It is up to us to choose how we perceive.”
Reality and Illusion:
David Bohm was a renowned physicist and philosopher who explored the nature of reality and consciousness. He believed that our perceptions of reality are often misleading and that we are trapped in a world of illusions created by our own minds. Bohm argued that our limited senses and fragmented thought processes prevent us from seeing the true nature of reality.
In his book “Wholeness and the Implicate Order,” Bohm wrote, “Reality is what we take to be true. What we take to be true is what we believe. What we believe is based upon our perceptions. What we perceive depends upon what we look for. What we look for depends upon what we think. What we think depends upon what we perceive. What we perceive determines what we believe. What we believe determines what we take to be true. What we take to be true is our reality.”
Bohm emphasized the importance of questioning our assumptions and beliefs in order to uncover the illusions that shape our understanding of reality. He believed that reality is much more complex and interconnected than we can comprehend, and that our limited perspective prevents us from seeing the bigger picture.
Bohm also explored the concept of the “implicate order,” which suggests that reality is enfolded and unfolded in an infinite series of interconnected layers. He argued that our perception of reality is like looking at one frame of a film, while the true nature of reality exists beyond our limited viewpoint.
Bohm’s work challenges us to question our preconceived notions and explore the deeper layers of reality. By recognizing the illusions that shape our perceptions, we can develop a more holistic and expansive understanding of the world around us.
On Knowledge:
“Knowledge is not an end in itself, but a means to understanding. It is the accumulation of information and experiences that give us a foundation from which to explore and unravel the mysteries of the universe. However, it is important to recognize that knowledge is not static; it is constantly evolving and expanding. What we know today may be outdated or disproven tomorrow. Therefore, we must approach knowledge with humility and an open mind, always willing to question and challenge what we think we know.”
David Bohm believed that true knowledge is not simply about collecting facts and figures, but about cultivating a deep and nuanced understanding of the world around us. It is about perceiving the interconnectedness of all things and uncovering the underlying patterns and principles that govern our reality. Knowledge, in this sense, is a tool for exploration and discovery, fueling our curiosity and pushing the boundaries of what is known.
“True knowledge is not the possession of information, but the transformation of the mind.”
Bohm emphasized the importance of discerning between knowledge and wisdom. While knowledge refers to the accumulation of facts and information, wisdom is the ability to apply that knowledge in a thoughtful and meaningful way. It is about understanding the broader implications and consequences of our actions and decisions. Wisdom comes from a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world, and it is cultivated through reflection, humility, and an openness to new ideas.
“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”
According to Bohm, intelligence is not simply about how much knowledge we possess, but about our capacity to adapt, grow, and evolve. It is our ability to learn from our mistakes, question our assumptions, and embrace new perspectives. Intelligence is not a fixed trait; it is a dynamic process that requires an open and flexible mind. True wisdom, then, lies not in what we know, but in our willingness to learn and change.
“Knowledge is limited; wisdom is infinite.”
Bohm recognized that knowledge, by its very nature, is limited. It is constrained by our individual perspectives, biases, and the limitations of our senses and tools of measurement. On the other hand, wisdom has the potential to transcend these limitations. It is the product of collective effort, collaboration, and the synthesis of diverse perspectives. Wisdom is infinite because it is constantly evolving and expanding, shaped by the insights and experiences of countless individuals throughout history.
Thought and Imagination:
In his work, David Bohm often discussed the relationship between thought and imagination. He believed that thought and imagination are closely intertwined, and that our thoughts have the power to shape our reality.
According to Bohm, thoughts are not just abstract ideas in our minds, but also have a tangible impact on the physical world. He believed that our thoughts create patterns and structures that influence our perception of reality and the actions we take.
Bohm also emphasized the importance of imagination in the process of thought. He believed that imagination allows us to go beyond the limits of our current knowledge and envision new possibilities. Without imagination, he argued, our thoughts would be limited to what we already know and would not have the ability to generate new ideas and innovations.
Furthermore, Bohm suggested that our imagination can be influenced by the collective thought patterns of society. He believed that the prevailing ideas and beliefs in a society can limit our imagination and prevent us from thinking in new and creative ways. He advocated for breaking free from these collective thought patterns and cultivating an individual and independent imagination.
In summary, Bohm believed that thought and imagination are interconnected and play a vital role in shaping our perception of reality and our ability to generate new ideas. He encouraged individuals to cultivate their imagination and break free from societal constraints in order to think more creatively and expansively.