“The only thing that is different from one time to another is what is seen and what is seen depends upon the people who are looking.”
What this quote means
Picabia observes that each era perceives the world differently, because vision depends on those who look. This relativistic idea underscores that our understanding of reality is subjective, influenced by culture, time, and experience. It invites us to recognize that our certainties are contingent and to consider other perspectives. This quote is a call to humility and empathy toward different worldviews.
How to apply it daily
In a disagreement, remind yourself that the other sees the world through their lens; listen to understand, not to reply.
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