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Aspect Quote by Abraham Maslow

“In a word, to perceive an object abstractly means not to perceive some aspects of it. It clearly implies selection of some attributes, rejection of other attributes, creation or distortion of still others. We make of it what we wish. We create it.” quote by Abraham Maslow
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“In a word, to perceive an object abstractly means not to perceive some aspects of it. It clearly implies selection of some attributes, rejection of other attributes, creation or distortion of still others. We make of it what we wish. We create it.”

Abraham Maslow

About This Quote

Source Book: Motivation and Personality, Abraham Maslow, 1954

Perceiving abstractly involves selecting certain attributes of an object while ignoring or altering others, shaping reality according to personal intent.

In simple terms: Seeing abstractly means choosing what to notice and what to ignore.

Key Takeaway

Be aware of how your focus shapes perception.

Themes

perception subjectivity creativity cognition

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical insightful

When to use this quote

  • art criticism
  • design
  • marketing
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

abstract thinking selective attention constructivism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your selective focus influence your decisions?
  • What aspects might you be overlooking?
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