How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph). We used Constance Garnett's translation.
Quote #10
Though I did lay it down at the beginning that consciousness is the greatest misfortune for man, yet I know man prizes it and would not give it up for any satisfaction. Consciousness, for instance, is infinitely superior to twice two makes four. Once you have mathematical certainty there is nothing left to do or to understand. There will be nothing left but to bottle up your five senses and plunge into contemplation. While if you stick to consciousness, even though the same result is attained, you can at least flog yourself at times, and that will, at any rate, liven you up. Reactionary as it is, corporal punishment is better than nothing. (1.9.3)
Earlier, the Underground Man claimed that consciousness was what allowed man to enjoy suffering. Here, he adds another claim: suffering causes consciousness. He then goes on to say that consciousness is better than the laws of nature, since consciousness allows for suffering. The waters are a little muddy here; it seems the most we can conclude from all his arguments is that suffering and consciousness are inextricably tied. Since he is a self-proclaimed man of over-consciousness, he must also be a man of hyper-suffering.