George Henry Lewes: 'Ordinary men live among marvels and feel no wonder, grow familiar with objects and learn nothing new about them.'

Ordinary men live among marvels and feel no wonder, grow familiar with objects and learn nothing new about them.

In the realm of human existence, there exists a peculiar phenomenon that often goes unnoticed. George Henry Lewes astutely captured this phenomenon with his thought-provoking quote: 'Ordinary men live among marvels and feel no wonder, grow familiar with objects and learn nothing new about them.' At its core, this quote encapsulates the notion that we, as ordinary individuals, tend to overlook the extraordinary marvels that surround us on a daily basis. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around us. However, to truly explore the depth of this quote's meaning, it is essential to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept – phenomenology.Phenomenology, a branch of philosophy developed by Edmund Husserl, delves into the study of conscious experience and our subjective perception of the external world. It emphasizes the idea that our lived experiences shape our understanding of reality. By applying phenomenology to Lewes's quote, we can gain a deeper understanding of why ordinary individuals often fail to recognize and appreciate the marvels that exist within their midst.In our daily lives, we encounter a plethora of objects and occurrences – from the grandeur of nature to the intricacy of human creations. Yet, as Lewes suggests, we become accustomed to these marvels, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the background of our existence. This can be attributed to the phenomenon known as habituation, whereby our attention and interest wane when faced with repetitive or familiar stimuli.An example of this can be found in the way we interact with technology. Consider the smartphone, a device that has become an indispensable part of our lives. Initially, when smartphones were introduced, they were novel and awe-inspiring. People marveled at the ability to carry an entire world of information and communication in their pockets. However, over time, these marvels became routine and expected. The wonder was replaced by a sense of entitlement, an expectation that the marvels would always be present. We no longer take the time to understand how our smartphones work or appreciate the technological advancements that enable their functionality. Instead, we simply expect them to deliver on our ever-growing demands.This sense of entitlement and lack of wonder extends beyond technology. It permeates our interactions with the natural world as well. Picture a bustling city street, where at any given moment, countless individuals are hurrying from one place to another. Amidst this chaotic rush, the towering skyscrapers, the vibrant array of sounds and colors, and the fascinating blend of cultures often go unnoticed. People become so fixated on their intended destination or forthcoming obligations that they fail to recognize the marvels that surround them. The bustling street merely becomes a means to an end – a mundane backdrop to their journey.To counteract this tendency towards familiarity, it is crucial to cultivate a mindfulness that allows us to reawaken our sense of wonder. By adopting a phenomenological perspective, we can actively engage with our surroundings and uncover the beauty and intricacy that often elude us. This involves embracing a childlike curiosity, a willingness to question the seemingly ordinary and delve deeper into our experiences.One way to practice this is through the art of mindfulness. Mindfulness encourages individuals to be fully present in the moment, to observe the world around them without judgment or preconceived notions. By immersing ourselves in the present, we become attuned to the intricate details that often go unnoticed – the play of light on a leaf, the whispers of wind through the trees, the subtle expressions on the faces of those we encounter. These small marvels, once overlooked, now come alive, creating a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation.In conclusion, George Henry Lewes's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the tendency for ordinary individuals to overlook the marvels that abound in their surroundings. However, by embracing the philosophical concept of phenomenology, we can rekindle our sense of wonder and curiosity. Through mindfulness and an intentional engagement with our experiences, we can break free from the chains of habituation and learn to see the world with fresh eyes. In doing so, we embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, enriching our lives and expanding our understanding of the marvels that exist all around us.