We get into the habit of living before acquiring the habit of thinking. In that race which daily hastens us towards death, the body maintains its irreparable lead.

The quote "We get into the habit of living before acquiring the habit of thinking. In that race which daily hastens us towards death, the body maintains its irreparable lead" comes from Albert Camus, a French-Algerian philosopher, writer, and key figure in the philosophy of absurdism. In this statement, Camus reflects on how humans often focus on the physical aspects of life, such as living and survival, without taking the time to truly reflect or engage in deeper thinking about the nature of existence and the inevitability of death.

Camus argues that we tend to live habitually, going through the motions of daily life without questioning or contemplating our purpose. We prioritize the demands of the body—basic survival, physical needs, and routines—over the more philosophical, intellectual aspects of thinking and self-awareness. This creates a disconnect, where people may live their lives without truly considering the deeper meaning behind their actions or existence.

The second part of the quote, "In that race which daily hastens us towards death, the body maintains its irreparable lead," introduces the idea that death is an inevitable part of life that we cannot outrun. While our minds may be preoccupied with existential questions or seeking meaning, the body continues its inevitable march toward death, unaffected by our intellectual pursuits. The body's "irreparable lead" reflects the idea that no matter how much we think about life, the physical aspects of our existence—the aging process, illness, and death—are beyond our control.

Ultimately, Camus' quote speaks to the tension between the physical reality of life and death and the philosophical exploration of our existence. It suggests that while we may be consumed by the demands of daily living, we must also find time for thinking and reflecting on the larger meaning of life, death, and the human condition. Camus’ view on absurdism contends that despite the inherent meaninglessness of life, we must still confront death and find ways to live authentically in the face of it.