John Ruskin: 'Remember that the most beautiful things in the world are the most useless; peacocks and lilies for instance.'

Remember that the most beautiful things in the world are the most useless; peacocks and lilies for instance.

The quote by John Ruskin, "Remember that the most beautiful things in the world are the most useless; peacocks and lilies for instance," invites us to ponder the value and purpose of beauty in our lives. At a straightforward level, Ruskin suggests that beauty can be found in things that serve no practical function. Peacocks, with their extravagant feathers, and lilies, with their delicate petals, do not contribute to our day-to-day needs or provide any tangible benefits. However, they captivate our attention and evoke a sense of awe and wonder. This quote highlights the idea that beauty can exist for its own sake, independent of its practical utility.While this notion may seem straightforward, let us delve into a philosophical concept that adds an unexpected twist to our interpretation. In the realm of philosophy, there exists a concept known as aesthetic relativism. This theory argues that beauty is subjective, meaning that its perception varies from person to person. What one individual may find beautiful, another may view differently. Aesthetic relativism challenges the notion of objective beauty and raises questions about the purpose and significance of beauty in our lives.Considering aesthetic relativism in conjunction with Ruskin's quote, we can explore the idea that the most beautiful things in the world may be useless precisely because their beauty is subjective. Their purpose lies not in their practical value but in their ability to evoke a personal response, touch our emotions, or stimulate our senses. Beauty, then, becomes an experience unique to each individual, where external objects, such as peacocks and lilies, serve as vehicles for this personal aesthetic encounter.One could argue that the most useless but beautiful things hold immense value precisely because they allow us to temporarily transcend the practicalities of everyday life. In a world often driven by efficiency and productivity, encountering the beauty of a peacock's vibrant plumage or the delicate elegance of a lily can offer an escape, even if fleeting, from the demands of functionality. The appreciation of beauty becomes a form of respite, a reminder that there is more to life than the pursuit of utility.Furthermore, the quote prompts us to question our own perceptions of value and worth. If we were to consider peacocks and lilies as useless solely by their lack of practical purpose, we overlook the intangible qualities they possess. Their beauty has the power to inspire creativity, spark imagination, and deepen our connection with the natural world. In this sense, beauty contributes to our overall well-being and adds richness and depth to our existence.Ultimately, Ruskin's quote invites us to challenge our conventional notions of usefulness and value. It urges us to explore the importance of beauty in our lives and consider its ability to enrich our experiences. By embracing the idea that the most beautiful things can be the most useless, we open ourselves up to a world of aesthetic enjoyment and appreciation that exists beyond the confines of functionality. Peacocks and lilies, among countless other examples, serve as reminders that sometimes the most profound and meaningful things in life are those that touch our senses and stir our souls, even if they serve no practical purpose.