John Lubbock: 'What we see depends mainly on what we look for.'

What we see depends mainly on what we look for.

"What we see depends mainly on what we look for." This quote by John Lubbock encapsulates the idea that our perception of the world is heavily influenced by our perspective and the things we choose to focus on. It suggests that the way we interpret and understand what we see is not solely based on objective reality but is also shaped by our individual biases, expectations, and desires.At its core, this quote is a reminder to approach life with an open mind and to be conscious of the lens through which we view the world. It emphasizes the role of intention and attention in shaping our perceptions and experiences. Have you ever noticed how, when you're in a particularly negative mindset, even the most beautiful things can seem dull and uninteresting? On the other hand, when you're feeling positive and optimistic, you're more likely to find joy and beauty in even the simplest of things. Lubbock's quote captures this idea, highlighting the importance of our mental state and what we choose to focus on.But what if we dig deeper into this concept? What if we consider the quote from a more philosophical standpoint? What if we take it to mean that our reality is not an objective truth but rather a subjective construct created by our minds?In some philosophical schools of thought, there is a notion that reality itself is a construct, a product of our perceptions and interpretations. This idea suggests that what we see is not a direct representation of the external world but rather a filtered and constructed version shaped by our individual experiences, beliefs, and expectations.Consider the concept of "phenomenological reality." According to this philosophy, our perception of reality is based on our consciousness and subjective experiences. In other words, the world we see and experience is unique to each individual. It is a culmination of our senses, thoughts, emotions, and memories. It implies that no two people can truly see or experience the world in exactly the same way.So, when Lubbock says, "What we see depends mainly on what we look for," he might be hinting at this deeper philosophical concept. Our perception of reality is influenced by what we choose to look for, what we pay attention to, and how we interpret the information we receive through our senses. We create our reality through our thoughts, beliefs, and intentions.This philosophical twist adds another layer of significance to Lubbock's quote. It encourages us to reflect on the power we hold in shaping our own reality. By understanding that what we see is shaped by our perspective, we can actively choose to broaden our horizons, challenge our biases, and open ourselves up to new possibilities. We can consciously decide to look for beauty, positivity, and growth in the world around us.Moreover, if reality itself is subjective and our perception is our own unique creation, it can lead us to be more tolerant and understanding of others' viewpoints. Recognizing that everyone has their own reality and that what they see is influenced by their own experiences and beliefs can foster empathy and compassion.In conclusion, John Lubbock's quote, "What we see depends mainly on what we look for," offers a straightforward reminder of the influence our perspectives have on our perception of reality. However, delving deeper into the philosophical implications behind this quote adds a fascinating dimension to our understanding. It encourages us to question the nature of reality itself and consider how our perceptions shape the world we experience. By embracing this concept, we can become more conscious in our observation of the world, open-minded in our interpretations, and compassionate towards different perspectives. Ultimately, it highlights the power we hold in shaping our own reality and reminds us to approach life with curiosity, wonder, and an ever-expanding perspective.