Anton Chekhov: 'To judge between good or bad, between successful and unsuccessful would take the eye of a God.'

To judge between good or bad, between successful and unsuccessful would take the eye of a God.

In his profound statement, Anton Chekhov suggests that the ability to accurately judge between good and bad, success and failure, is a task that surpasses human capacity. This quote encapsulates the limitations we face as mere mortals in comprehending the complexities of right and wrong, and evaluating the outcomes of our actions. Chekhov argues that such discernment would require the divine perspective of a God, as only an entity beyond human limitations could possess the all-encompassing wisdom needed to make such judgments.At first glance, this quote seems to convey a simple message. We often find ourselves engulfed in making judgments about the world around us, scrutinizing the choices made by others, and assessing the outcomes of their endeavors. However, Chekhov reminds us that our judgments are tainted by our inherent subjectivity, biases, and limited understanding.To delve deeper into this concept, let us introduce the philosophical concept of relativism, which challenges the notion of objective truth and brings an unexpected twist to our understanding of judgment. Relativism posits that truth, morality, and success are not fixed, universal ideals, but are instead subjective and contingent upon individual perspectives and cultural contexts. In this view, there is no absolute benchmark against which we can definitively compare actions or outcomes as good or bad, successful or unsuccessful.Chekhov's quote gains newfound significance when examined in light of relativism. If there is no objective standard for judgment, the task of discerning between good and bad becomes even more elusive, reinforcing the concept that only a divine being possessing omnipotent knowledge could fully comprehend such complexities. It challenges us to question the validity and fairness of our own judgments, highlighting the need for humility in our assessments of others and their endeavors.Moreover, Chekhov's quote invites us to consider the moral implications of judgment itself. If human judgment is fallible and inherently limited, should we even attempt to pass judgment on others? Should we focus on understanding rather than evaluating, seeking empathy instead of critique? Perhaps by acknowledging our inability to judge with complete accuracy, we can cultivate compassion, patience, and a deeper sense of interconnectedness.The practical implications of this quote extend beyond individual interactions and stretch into larger societal structures. It urges us to approach the diverse array of human experiences and achievements with empathy, recognizing that what may appear as failure or success from our limited vantage point might hold deeper complexities and lessons that transcend our initial assessments.Understanding the limitations of judgment can foster a more inclusive society that embraces nuance, welcomes diverse perspectives, and challenges the dominant narratives that often perpetuate exclusion and inequality. Rather than hastily labeling someone or something as good or bad, successful or unsuccessful, we can strive to appreciate the intricacies and multiplicity of the human experience.Anton Chekhov's contemplation on judgment serves as a reminder of our inherent limitations and the need for humility in our evaluations. By embracing this wisdom, we can move towards a more compassionate and empathetic way of engaging with others, recognizing the complexity of existence and celebrating the diversity of human achievements. In a world where judgment is often wielded as a tool for separation, Chekhov challenges us to approach life with the understanding that our limited perspectives can never fully capture the vastness and intricacy of the human story.