But why is it that if you imagine a baby who smells of…
““But why is it that if you imagine a baby who smells of milk, for example, you can't help smiling? Why is there such an agreement around the world about what is or isn't a foul smell? Who decided what smells bad? Is it impossible that somewhere in this world there are people who, if they sat next to a homeless fellow they'd get the urge to snuggle up to him, but if they sat next to a baby they'd get an urge to kill it?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Our reactions to smells are culturally shaped, revealing how societal norms dictate what is pleasant or repulsive.
In simple terms: Smell preferences are learned, not innate.
Key Takeaway
Question and broaden your sensory assumptions.
Themes
culture
perception
norms
ethics
biology
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- cooking
- urban living
- travel
- social interactions
Key Concepts
social conditioning
olfactory perception
human behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we label certain odors as “bad”?
- Can you imagine a world with different scent norms?
A Different Perspective
Smell judgments can be subjective and may not apply universally.