Arthur Ashe: 'Clothes and manners do not make the man; but when he is made, they greatly improve his appearance.'

Clothes and manners do not make the man; but when he is made, they greatly improve his appearance.

In the realm of appearances, there exists a constant debate regarding the significance of clothes and manners. Arthur Ashe, the renowned tennis player, once opined that these external factors do not define a person, but once they are established, they undoubtedly enhance one's overall appearance. This insightful quote speaks to the notion that external presentation has the capacity to uplift and transform an individual's demeanour. However, delving deeper into the philosophical nuances of Ashe's statement, one realizes that its essence rests on a profound understanding of the relationship between self-worth and externalities.At a superficial level, Ashe's statement acknowledges that clothes and manners do not inherently make an individual. One's character, values, and personality are the true markers of their essence. External appearances might be fleeting or deceiving, but they cannot mask the true nature of a person. In this sense, Ashe sets the foundation for emphasizing the inner core of an individual, urging us to look beyond superficiality.However, Ashe astutely recognizes that when a person has been formed – already established in their character, values, and beliefs – clothes and manners can serve as powerful tools to enhance their external presentation. This introduces the concept of congruence, where one's internal being finds harmony with their external projection. When a person carefully selects their attire and cultivates polite and respectful manners, they create an environment that supports their inner self and reinforces self-confidence.The importance of Ashe's statement lies in its ability to reflect upon the significance of self-actualization and personal growth. While clothes and manners may not define a person, they do become an instrumental part of the journey toward self-improvement. By paying attention to one's appearance and behavior, individuals can align their outer presentation with their inner values, thereby reflecting their personal growth.In a society often obsessed with appearances, it is important to strike a balance between acknowledging the value of inner worth and understanding the power of external presentation. The focus should shift from using clothes and manners as an empty façade to instead utilizing them as tools for self-expression and personal development.Moreover, Ashe's quote can be seen as a rebellion against societal judgments that are solely based on external appearances. By recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, Ashe implores us not to pre-judge or make assumptions based solely on what meets the eye. His quote invites us to explore the complexities and depth of a person beyond their attire or manners.In this light, it becomes essential to embrace a philosophy that captures the essence of Ashe's message. The concept of "transcendent externalities" serves as an unexpected philosophical lens through which to view this quote. It posits that while external factors may seem inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, they possess the transcendent ability to shape our inner selves and create profound experiences.In summary, Arthur Ashe’s quote beautifully encompasses the intricate relationship between one's inner worth and their external presentation. It highlights that while clothes and manners do not define a person, they significantly contribute to their overall appearance once they have been made. Ashe’s profound understanding of personal growth and self-expression unveils the importance of striking a congruence between inner essence and external projection. Through his quote, Ashe challenges societal judgments based solely on appearances, urging us to see the complexities and depth of an individual beyond surface-level evaluations. By embracing the philosophy of transcendent externalities, we begin to appreciate the transformative power of external factors, recognizing their capacity to shape our inner selves and create meaningful connections with the world around us.