We think of strangers as stronger and better than we are.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "We think of strangers as stronger and better than we are" touches on a common psychological phenomenon where people often perceive unfamiliar individuals as possessing superior qualities compared to themselves. This belief can be traced back to several psychological and social mechanisms.
When we encounter strangers, we lack the personal experiences and insights that we have about ourselves and those close to us. This absence of intimate knowledge can lead to idealization. Without knowing their flaws, struggles, or vulnerabilities, we may project our own insecurities and shortcomings onto them, imagining them as more capable or accomplished. This idealization is a way to cope with our own self-doubt and to escape the discomfort of confronting our own limitations directly.
Additionally, strangers often present themselves in ways that are designed to impress or to meet social expectations. In public settings, people may emphasize their best traits or achievements, consciously or unconsciously, reinforcing the idea that they are exceptional. This presentation can contribute to the perception that they are more impressive than we are, even though we may not have a complete picture of their reality.
This tendency to view strangers through a lens of admiration can also be influenced by the way social comparisons work. When comparing ourselves to strangers, we often focus on their strengths and successes, while downplaying or ignoring our own achievements. This can create a skewed perspective where others seem to possess qualities we aspire to, thus enhancing their perceived superiority.
The belief that strangers are "stronger and better" than ourselves can be both empowering and limiting. On one hand, it can motivate us to strive for self-improvement, inspired by the attributes we attribute to others. On the other hand, it can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, as we might feel that we fall short in comparison to the idealized image of strangers.
In essence, this quote highlights the complexity of human perception and self-evaluation. By recognizing the tendency to idealize strangers, we can strive to view ourselves and others more realistically, appreciating both our own strengths and the genuine qualities of those around us.
Who said the quote?
The quote "We think of strangers as stronger and better than we are." is often attributed to John Steinbeck (Quotes). John Steinbeck, an American novelist, created powerful stories such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Of Mice and Men."
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
