In the theory of psycho-analysis we have no hesitation in assuming that the course taken by mental events is automatically regulated by the pleasure principle. We believe, that is to say, that the course of those events is invariably set in motion by an unpleasurable tension, and that it takes a direction such that its final outcome coincides with a lowering of that tension that is, with an avoidance of unpleasure or a production of pleasure.

Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.

Thus we arrive at the singular conclusion that of all the information passed by our cultural assets it is precisely the elements which might be of the greatest importance to us and which have the task of solving the riddles of the universe and of reconciling us to the sufferings of life -- it is precisely those elements that are the least well authenticated of any.

Not to know the past is to be in bondage to it, while to remember, to know, is to be set free.

Words have a magical power. They can either bring the greatest happiness or the deepest despair.

The psychical, whatever its nature may be, is itself unconscious.

The unconscious of one human being can react upon that of another without passing through the conscious.