Voltaire: 'By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property.'

By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property.

The quote, "By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property" by Voltaire, holds great meaning and significance. It suggests that through showing appreciation for the talents, skills, and qualities of others, we not only acknowledge their excellence but also make it a part of our own. In a straightforward interpretation, the quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing, valuing, and honoring the achievements and virtues of others.When we appreciate someone's excellence, we are not only acknowledging their abilities but also acknowledging the potential for greatness within ourselves. This quote highlights the interconnectedness of human experiences and the way in which admiration and appreciation can help us develop and grow as individuals. By recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of others, we can learn from them, be inspired, and strive for excellence in our own lives.The importance of this quote lies in its reminder that fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition is vital for personal and collective growth. When we sincerely appreciate the excellence in others, it creates a positive and supportive environment where individuals are encouraged to continue their pursuit of greatness. It helps build strong relationships and enhances collaboration, as people feel valued and acknowledged for their efforts.While the straightforward interpretation of Voltaire's quote is powerful in itself, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, drawing a comparison to explore depth and intrigue. Consider the concept of "mimesis" from the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle. Mimesis is the idea that humans learn through imitation or mimicking others. It suggests that by observing and reflecting the skills, virtues, and excellence of others, we can assimilate and internalize them as our own.In this light, Voltaire's quote aligns with the concept of mimesis. When we appreciate and recognize the excellence in others, we not only admire it but also start to imitate and integrate those qualities within ourselves. By witnessing and valuing the achievements of others, we acquire the desire and determination to strive for excellence in our own lives.However, it is important to note that the quote does not imply a sense of appropriation or ownership over others' excellence. Rather, it emphasizes the mutual benefit that arises when we appreciate and learn from the excellence of others. It fosters a spirit of admiration, humility, and camaraderie, where individuals support and elevate each other towards greater heights.To better understand the significance of Voltaire's quote and its relationship with the concept of mimesis, let us imagine a scenario. Imagine a group of artists working together in a studio. Each artist has their unique style, technique, and creative vision. When one artist produces a remarkable piece of art, the others gather around to appreciate and acknowledge its excellence. They study the nuances, techniques, and concepts that contributed to its brilliance.In this process, the other artists are not seeking to imitate or replicate the masterpiece. Instead, they are analyzing it, dissecting its elements, and learning from their peer's expertise. By appreciating the excellence in their colleague's work, they gain insights, inspiration, and techniques, which they can then apply to their own art. Through this appreciation of excellence, they make it a part of their artistic journey, enhancing their own creative capabilities.Similarly, in our own lives, we can apply this concept on a broader scale. By genuinely appreciating the accomplishments of those around us, we cultivate a mindset of learning and growth. We recognize that excellence is not finite or scarce but rather abundant and expansive. This perspective allows us to celebrate the achievements of others without feeling threatened or diminished, as we understand that their success does not take away from our own potential.In conclusion, Voltaire's quote, "By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property," encapsulates the significance of acknowledging and valuing the excellence of others. It reminds us that through sincere appreciation, we not only celebrate their achievements but also assimilate them as valuable lessons in our own pursuit of excellence. When we cultivate a culture of appreciation, admiration, and learning, we create an environment that fosters personal growth, collaboration, and collective progress. By embracing the unexpected concept of mimesis, we can further explore the profound impact that appreciation can have on our lives, allowing us to continually evolve and strive for greatness.