Walter Benjamin: 'All disgust is originally disgust at touching.'

All disgust is originally disgust at touching.

The quote by Walter Benjamin, "All disgust is originally disgust at touching," encapsulates a profound and thought-provoking observation about the way we experience and respond to the world around us. At first glance, the quote seems straightforward, suggesting that the root of our disgust is often linked to physical contact. However, when we delve deeper into its implications, we encounter unexpected philosophical concepts that shed new light on the nature of disgust and its broader significance.To understand Benjamin's quote, we need to explore the concept of disgust itself. Disgust can be defined as an instinctive and visceral reaction to something repulsive or offensive, causing a strong feeling of aversion or revulsion. It is a primal emotion that has both physiological and psychological dimensions. From the perspective of evolutionary biology, disgust was initially crucial for survival, helping our ancestors avoid potential sources of harm or disease.When we consider Benjamin's proposition that all disgust originates from the idea of touching, we enter into a realm of philosophical inquiry beyond the literal interpretation. Benjamin hints at the idea that touching encompasses more than just physical contact; it expands to encompass our interactions with the world, both tangible and intangible. Our senses of sight, smell, taste, and hearing can also be thought of as various modes of touching, as they allow us to perceive and make contact with the external world.This interpretation presents a fascinating comparison and contrast to the traditional understanding of disgust. We often associate disgust with physical sensations, such as the revulsion one might feel upon touching something slimy or foul-smelling. However, Benjamin's insight encourages us to explore the deeper psychological and emotional dimensions of disgust, which transcend mere physicality.While Benjamin does not explicitly provide a reason for why disgust arises from touching, we can speculate as to its roots. Perhaps it is because touch is the most primal and direct sense, offering a profound level of intimacy with the world. When we touch something, we bring it into our personal space, blurring the boundary between self and other. This blurring can instigate a profound sense of discomfort and unease, leading to the experience of disgust.Moreover, by extending the concept of touching beyond the physical realm, Benjamin opens up a fascinating perspective on the nature of disgust in various domains of human experience. Disgust can manifest in response to moral transgressions, offensive ideas, or even certain sounds, colors, or textures. These forms of disgust can be seen as a metaphorical extension of the bodily sensation of disgust, reflecting our aversion to ideas or experiences that we find morally, ethically, or aesthetically repulsive. In this broader context, Benjamin's quote invites us to consider how our disgust is a reaction not only to physical stimuli but also to the intangible aspects of our existence.By challenging us to consider the multifaceted nature of disgust, Benjamin's quote prompts us to pay closer attention to our emotional responses and the underlying reasons behind them. It encourages us to question the nature of our aversions and explore the complex interplay between our perceptions, values, and bodily sensations. Through this exploration, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the intricate ways in which we engage with the world.In conclusion, Walter Benjamin's quote, "All disgust is originally disgust at touching," takes us on an unexpected philosophical journey. It invites us to broaden our understanding of disgust beyond its conventional boundaries and explore its complex relationship with our perceptions and experiences. By considering the notion of touching in its various manifestations, we gain insight into the nature of our aversions and the intricate interplay between our physical and emotional selves. Ultimately, Benjamin's quote challenges us to reflect on the intricate tapestry of human existence and invites us to rediscover the world through a fresh lens.