I think, therefore I am' is the statement of an intellectual who underrates toothaches.
"I think, therefore I am" is a famous philosophical statement that suggests one’s existence is confirmed through the act of thinking. In Milan Kundera's book "Immortality," this idea is critiqued as he highlights how intellectual pursuits can sometimes overlook the basic, tangible experiences of life, such as physical pain. Kundera points out that an emphasis on abstract thought may lead to a dismissal of important bodily sensations that shape our human experience.
This notion serves as a reminder that intellectualism should not overshadow the reality of our physical existence. Kundera's reflection invites readers to consider the importance of acknowledging both thought and bodily experiences, stressing that understanding human existence requires a balance between the mind and body. The quote suggests that while philosophy can be profound, it must also remain grounded in the practicalities of life, including its discomforts.