In "Saturday" by Ian McEwan, the protagonist Henry reflects on the nature of primitive thinking that is often tied to a belief in the supernatural. He suggests that this type of thinking can lead individuals to prioritize their own subjective experiences, creating a distorted sense of reality where personal needs overshadow a broader understanding of the world. This inclination results in an inflated sense of self-importance, making it difficult for individuals to grasp their place within the universe.

Henry proposes that this distorted reasoning exists on a spectrum, with its most extreme end resembling psychosis. He likens such extreme beliefs to an abandoned temple—an eerie and isolated manifestation of a distorted mindset. This metaphor underscores the disconnection from reality and the dangers of allowing subjective interpretations to overshadow rational thinking and a sense of shared human experience.