Observation without motive | Krishnamurti

Summary

The script explores the role of thought in creating divisions in the world, from national to ideological splits. It emphasizes that thought, limited by its past, inherently causes division and can never perceive the whole. The discussion shifts to the nature of observation, questioning whether it involves the interference of thought and if it is possible to observe without creating images or acting based on the past. The speaker explores learning, knowledge accumulation, and the impact of past experiences on actions, highlighting how both observation and action are influenced by thought and past knowledge.

Takeaways

• 😀 Thought has created divisions in the world, such as national, religious, and ideological separations.
• 😀 Thought, being limited and rooted in the past, inevitably brings about division and prevents seeing the whole truth.
• 😀 The speaker questions whether thought can deeply inquire into issues or if its limitations make this impossible.
• 😀 Observation can involve the movement of thought, which distorts true perception with likes, dislikes, and prejudices.
• 😀 The challenge is to observe without allowing thought to interfere with the observation, which requires discipline.
• 😀 True discipline involves learning, not conforming or imitating, and it focuses on observing and understanding thought’s interference.
• 😀 Learning is typically associated with accumulating knowledge, but the speaker emphasizes learning through observation without creating images from it.
• 😀 Action based on accumulated knowledge results from past experiences, leading to future projections and repetitive actions.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that true observation and learning can only occur if the past and its projections do not interfere with the present moment.
• 😀 The movement of thought can lead to an accumulation of knowledge, but the speaker challenges this, asking whether this accumulation is the source of true learning.
• 😀 Ultimately, the speaker invites the audience to reflect on whether they can observe, act, and learn without the interference of past thought patterns and assumptions.

Q & A

What role does thought play in creating divisions in the world?

Thought is responsible for creating divisions such as national, religious, and ideological separations. It causes division between people, even when they may think they love each other.

Why is thought described as limited in the transcript?

Thought is limited because it is a product of the past and thus cannot see the whole picture. It is always shaped by past experiences and knowledge, which restricts its ability to perceive things fully and comprehensively.

Can thought inquire more deeply despite its limitations?

The transcript suggests that despite the limitations of thought, it can inquire more deeply. However, the activity of thought remains superficial unless one learns to observe without the interference of thought.

What is the nature of the hunger or desire mentioned in the script?

The hunger or desire refers to a constant movement of searching and seeking, which is part of human nature. This continuous search for meaning or understanding can often be influenced by thought, leading to repeated patterns of behavior.

How does observation relate to the movement of thought?

Observation is often influenced by the movement of thought. When observing, thought may create conclusions, likes or dislikes, and judgments based on past experiences, which distort the pure act of observation.

Is it possible to observe without the interference of thought?

The script proposes that it is indeed possible to observe without the interference of thought. This requires discipline and the ability to learn about the movement of thought without allowing it to shape or color the observation.

What is the meaning of discipline in this context?

Discipline in this context refers to the ability to learn without conforming, imitating, or allowing the mind to become dull. It is about learning to observe and understand the movement of thought without being controlled by it.

What does the transcript mean by 'learning to observe'?

Learning to observe means being aware of the process of observation itself and how thought interferes with it. It involves learning to see things as they are, without projecting past knowledge, conclusions, or desires onto them.

How does the accumulation of knowledge affect our actions?

Our actions are often based on accumulated knowledge, either from learning or from past experiences. This knowledge influences how we act, either skillfully or unskillfully, and shapes our future behavior.

What is the relationship between action, knowledge, and thought?

The relationship is cyclical: action is based on accumulated knowledge, which is the result of past experiences or thoughts. This knowledge then informs future actions, creating a continuous loop where thought shapes both past and future actions.