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Absolutes Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Absolute catholicity of taste is not without its dangers. It is only an auctioneer who should admire all schools of art.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Absolute catholicity of taste is not without its dangers. It is only an auctioneer who should admire all schools of art.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Play: "The Importance of Being Earnest", 1895

Taste that embraces everything loses discernment; only a judge should value all art equally.

In simple terms: Universal taste erodes critical judgment.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate selective appreciation.

Themes

art taste criticism culture

Mood

analytical critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • museum curation
  • art criticism
  • personal style
  • education

Key Concepts

aesthetic judgment subjectivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria should guide artistic judgment?
  • Can one appreciate all without losing discernment?
A Different Perspective

Total acceptance may dilute standards.

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