John Steinbeck: 'You know how advice is. You only want it if it agrees with what you wanted to do anyway.'

You know how advice is. You only want it if it agrees with what you wanted to do anyway.

In his astute observation about the nature of advice, John Steinbeck once said, "You know how advice is. You only want it if it agrees with what you wanted to do anyway." This quote encapsulates a universal truth about human nature and the way we often seek validation for our preconceived notions, rather than seeking genuine guidance. Steinbeck presents an intriguing perspective on the dynamics of advice, challenging us to delve deeper into the reasons behind our inclination to only embrace suggestions that align with our own desires.At first glance, Steinbeck's quote appears to be a straightforward acknowledgement of our innate confirmation bias. We all too often seek advice not as a means of gaining new insights or alternative viewpoints but rather as a way to fortify our own convictions. It is a scary realization that we may be prone to cherry-picking advice that conveniently supports our own beliefs and discarding any dissenting opinions. By doing so, we insulate ourselves from the challenging process of growth and self-improvement.However, let us now explore an unexpected philosophical concept that sheds additional light on Steinbeck's quote: Socrates's dialectic method. Socrates, the revered ancient Greek philosopher, propagated a method of inquiry and discussion that aimed to uncover the truth through open and unbiased dialogue. This approach involved questioning assumptions, challenging beliefs, and embracing contradictory viewpoints. It stands in stark contrast to the human tendency highlighted by Steinbeck's quote.In comparing these two perspectives, we uncover a profound divergence in our approach to seeking guidance. Socrates's dialectic method encourages critical thinking, an openness to diverse opinions, and the willingness to engage in intellectual and philosophical discourse. On the other hand, Steinbeck's observation points out our tendency to selectively gravitate towards advice that aligns with our desired outcome.Despite their differences, both Steinbeck and Socrates recognize a fundamental aspect of human nature: our resistance to change and our inclination to seek comfort in familiarity. We are creatures of habit, and novel ideas or challenging advice can be met with skepticism or outright rejection. It is understandable, as the unknown can be daunting, and venturing into uncharted territory requires courage and an open mind.So, why does Steinbeck's quote resonate so strongly with us? Perhaps it is because it holds a mirror up to our own behaviors and forces us to confront our biases. Acknowledging this innate predisposition enables us to make a conscious effort to transcend it. We can strive to be more open-minded and receptive to advice, recognizing that the true value lies not in its agreement with our wishes, but in its potential to broaden our perspectives and aid our personal growth.Moreover, the thoughtful combination of Steinbeck's quote and Socrates's dialectic method prompts us to question the nature of advice itself. Are we seeking genuine guidance, or are we merely seeking reassurance? Should advice always align with our desired outcome, or can it serve as a catalyst for exploration and self-discovery? The juxtaposition of these ideas invites us to challenge our own assumptions and examine the motivations behind our actions.In conclusion, John Steinbeck's quote encapsulates a truth about human nature that can be uncomfortable to confront. Our inherent confirmation bias often leads us to seek advice that aligns with our own desires, rather than embracing alternative perspectives. However, in embracing the philosophical concept of Socratic inquiry, we are prompted to question our bias and explore the transformative power of genuine guidance. By consciously challenging our predispositions and embracing diverse viewpoints, we can embark on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery. Ultimately, the true value of advice lies not in its alignment with our wishes, but in its potential to challenge and inspire us to become the best version of ourselves.