Arthur Schopenhauer: 'Politeness is to human nature what warmth is to wax.'

Politeness is to human nature what warmth is to wax.

Politeness, according to Arthur Schopenhauer, can be likened to warmth for wax, a metaphor that encapsulates the delicate nature of human behavior. In a straightforward interpretation, this quote implies that politeness is crucial to the molding and shaping of human nature. Just as warmth makes wax more malleable and pliable, politeness affects how individuals interact with one another, ultimately influencing their character and the overall tone of society.At first glance, Schopenhauer's comparison may appear simple, but it opens the door to a deeper philosophical concept: the power of external influences on human nature. While the obvious connection between warmth and wax highlights the transformative nature of politeness, a more profound understanding can be derived from examining the nature of wax itself. Wax, in its natural state, is hard, rigid, and resistant to change. It requires external stimuli, such as warmth, to become more adaptable and receptive to shaping.Similarly, human nature tends to be stubborn and resistant to transformation. People often hold firmly to their preconceived notions, beliefs, and biases. However, politeness acts as the welcoming warmth that softens these rigid mindsets, enabling individuals to be more open to varied perspectives and ideas. The concept of politeness, therefore, assumes a broader significance as it not only affects personal interactions but also plays a pivotal role in society's dynamism and progress.The comparison Schopenhauer draws between politeness and warmth highlights an implicit understanding that transforming one's nature is a reciprocal process. Just as warmth aids in shaping wax, it is vital to recognize that politeness is reciprocated in human interactions. When individuals encounter politeness, they are more likely to respond in kind, establishing a virtuous cycle. This reciprocity creates an environment conducive to empathy, understanding, and respect, fostering a harmonious coexistence among people.However, it is essential not to fall victim to the naive assumption that politeness alone can solve all problems or cure societal ills. Schopenhauer's metaphor does not imply that every individual is merely a pliable piece of wax, molded entirely by external factors. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of politeness as an agent of change, influencing the attitudes and behaviors of individuals within the boundaries of their own nature.In contrast to the metaphor of politeness as warmth, it is worth considering the concept of rudeness as a jarring coldness that can also impact human nature. Rudeness can be seen as the opposite of politeness, causing friction, hostility, and rigidity in social interactions. Instead of facilitating openness and pliability, rudeness hardens individuals, reinforcing their preexisting beliefs and closing them off from alternative perspectives. The wax metaphor would then suggest that, just as coldness renders wax brittle and inflexible, rudeness solidifies and strengthens individuals' existing biases, making them resistant to change.By exploring and understanding the transformative power of politeness and the detrimental effects of rudeness, we can better comprehend the importance of cultivating and promoting a polite society. Schopenhauer's metaphor encourages us to reflect on our own interactions and behaviors, questioning whether the warmth we offer to others contributes to their growth and openness or fosters rigidity and hostility.In conclusion, Schopenhauer's quote, "Politeness is to human nature what warmth is to wax," succinctly captures the significance of politeness in shaping individual behavior and the overall tone of society. This metaphor reminds us that just as warmth makes wax soft and malleable, politeness has the power to transform human interactions, fostering empathy, respect, and understanding. Conversely, the absence of politeness, represented by rudeness, can harden individuals and hinder personal growth. By embracing politeness as a transformative force, we can contribute to the creation of a more open, harmonious, and adaptable society.