The human being is a self-propelled automaton entirely under the control of external influences. Willful and predetermined though they appear, his actions are governed not from within, but from without. He is like a float tossed about by the waves of a turbulent sea.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that human actions are largely influenced by external factors rather than internal will.
Nikola Tesla emphasizes the idea that human behavior is not solely a product of individual choice or free will, but is heavily shaped by external circumstances and influences, much like an object adrift in a turbulent sea. He likens humans to automatons, implying that our decisions may seem willful but are largely dictated by the environment and societal pressures, which can lead to a lack of genuine autonomy.
In practice
A speaker at a philosophical seminar discussing the nature of free will.
Even matter called inorganic, believed to be dead, responds to irritants and gives unmistakable evidence of a living principle within. Everything that exists, organic or inorganic, animated or inert, is susceptible to stimulus from the outside.
Our senses enable us to perceive only a minute portion of the outside world.
Every living being is an engine geared to the wheelwork of the universe. Though seemingly affected only by its immediate surrounding, the sphere of external influence extends to infinite distance.
The history of science shows that theories are perishable. With every new truth that is revealed we get a better understanding of Nature and our conceptions and views are modified.
The Secretary of Hygiene or Physical Culture will be far more important in the cabinet of the President of the United States who holds office in the year 2035 than the Secretary of War.
I am unwilling to accord to some small−minded and jealous individuals the satisfaction of having thwarted my efforts. These men are to me nothing more than microbes of a nasty disease. My project was retarded by laws of nature. The world was not prepared for it. It was too far ahead of time, but the same laws will prevail in the end and make it a triumphal success.
The world is given to me only once, not one existing and one perceived. Subject and object are only one.
When I go to hell, I mean to carry a bribe: for look you, good gifts evermore make way for the worst persons.
The pyramids, attached with age, have forgotten the names of their founders.
The offing was barred by a black bank of clouds, and the tranquil water-way leading to the uttermost ends of the earth flowed somber under an overcast sky--seemed to lead into the heart of an immense darkness.
I am for freedom of religion, and against all maneuvers to bring about a legal ascendency of one sect over another.
Both dreams and myths are important communications from ourselves to ourselves.
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