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Cases Quote by David Hockney

“The 'how' has a great effect on what we see. To say that 'what we see' is more important than 'how we see it' is to think that 'how' has been settled and fixed. When you realize this is not the case, you realize that 'how' often affects 'what' we see.” quote by David Hockney
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“The 'how' has a great effect on what we see. To say that 'what we see' is more important than 'how we see it' is to think that 'how' has been settled and fixed. When you realize this is not the case, you realize that 'how' often affects 'what' we see.”

David Hockney

About This Quote

Source Interview: BBC Radio 4, 2015

The way we perceive things shapes our understanding; the method of observation influences what we notice and interpret.

In simple terms: How we see affects what we see.

Key Takeaway

Consider perspective in analysis.

Themes

perception methodology observation knowledge

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

analytical educational

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • art criticism
  • education
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

epistemology visual studies cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • In what ways does your method of observation limit your conclusions?
  • Can changing perspective reveal hidden truths?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook that some perceptions are constrained by biology or technology.

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