The individual (no matter how well-meaning he might be, no matter how much strength he might have, if only he would use it) does not have the passion to rip himself away from either the coils of Reflection or the seductive ambiguities of Reflection; nor do the surroundings and times have any events or passions, but rather provide a negative setting of a habit of reflection, which plays with some illusory project only to betray him in the end with a way out: it shows him that the most clever thing to do is nothing at all.

Summary

This quote suggests that individuals often lack the motivation or drive to break free from the cycle of overthinking and indecisiveness. Despite having the potential and strength to take action, they are easily captivated by the allure of contemplation and the ambiguity it brings. Furthermore, the quote highlights that the external circumstances and societal influences do not provide any significant events or passions to ignite change. Instead, they serve as a negative backdrop fostering a habitual tendency towards reflection. Ultimately, this constant overthinking only leads to deceptive projects and, in the end, convinces the individual that the wisest course of action is to do nothing.

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