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In our judgment of human transactions, the law of optics…

“In our judgment of human transactions, the law of optics is reversed, we see most dimly the objects which are close around us.” quote by Richard Whately
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“In our judgment of human transactions, the law of optics is reversed, we see most dimly the objects which are close around us.”

Richard Whately

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Human judgment is clouded by proximity; we see close objects dimly, suggesting bias toward distant or abstract ideas.

In simple terms: We misjudge close things.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and correct proximity bias.

Themes

perception bias human nature

Mood

analytical introspective

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • leadership
  • design
  • communication

Key Concepts

optics judgment cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you misjudged something nearby?
  • How can you improve clarity in close relationships?
A Different Perspective

Bias may be unavoidable in fast decisions.

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