Quote by Clifford Geertz
To see ourselves as others see us can be eye-opening. To see others as sharing a nature with ourselves is the merest decency. But it is from the far more difficult achievement of seeing ourselves amongst others, as a local example of the forms human life has locally taken, a case among cases, a world among worlds, that the largeness of mind, without which objectivity is self-congratulation and tolerance a sham, comes.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the importance of perspective and understanding in our interactions with others. It suggests that by seeing ourselves through the eyes of others, we gain new insights and broaden our understanding. Additionally, it highlights the importance of recognizing the shared humanity we have with others, treating them with respect and empathy. However, the quote goes further by urging us to strive for a more challenging task, which is to see ourselves in the context of others, acknowledging the diversity of human experiences. This broad-mindedness is necessary for genuine objectivity and tolerance towards others, as anything less would be self-centered and insincere.
Topics
Identity
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