This quote suggests that thoughts themselves are neutral; they are neither moral nor immoral. It is our emotions, our feelings about these thoughts, that can be classified as moral or immoral. In essence, Wilde is distinguishing between the cognitive and emotional aspects of our mental experiences.

When we think, we are simply processing information, exploring possibilities, and constructing hypothetical scenarios. Thoughts are just tools that our brain uses to understand and navigate the world. They are not inherently good or bad, right or wrong. They are just thoughts.

Emotions, on the other hand, add a layer of judgment and evaluation to our thoughts. They color our thoughts with shades of morality or immorality. When we feel guilty about a thought, for example, we are applying a moral judgment to it. We are saying that this thought is ‘wrong’ or ‘bad’. But it is not the thought itself that is immoral, it is our emotional response to it.

Applying this concept in today’s world or in personal development, it can be used to combat self-judgment and promote mental freedom. Often, we judge ourselves for our thoughts, especially when they are socially unacceptable or taboo. But if we understand that thoughts themselves are not immoral, we can let go of this self-judgment. We can allow ourselves to think freely, to explore all possibilities, without feeling guilty or wrong.

This idea can also help in promoting empathy and understanding. When we realize that thoughts are not immoral, we can be more understanding of others’ thoughts, even if they are different from our own. We can realize that they too are just exploring possibilities, just like us.

In essence, Wilde’s quote encourages us to separate our thoughts from our emotions, to see them as distinct aspects of our mental experiences. This can lead to greater mental freedom, self-acceptance, and empathy.