You always admire what you really don’t understand.

What's the meaning of this quote?

Quote Meaning: The essence of the quote "You always admire what you really don't understand" delves into the intricate dynamics of admiration and comprehension. At its core, the statement suggests that admiration often stems from a lack of full understanding or comprehension of the subject in question. This assertion encapsulates a paradoxical aspect of human nature, revealing a tendency to appreciate, idealize, or hold in high regard that which remains elusive or enigmatic.

Human curiosity is a driving force behind the pursuit of understanding, yet there exists a captivating allure in the mysterious and the unknown. When faced with complexity or ambiguity, individuals may find themselves drawn to a subject, be it a person, concept, or phenomenon. In these instances, admiration becomes a response to the intrigue posed by the incomprehensible, creating a sense of wonder and fascination that transcends the boundaries of familiarity.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: A step-by-step blueprint to realize your dreams

The quote also implies that a certain level of distance or unfamiliarity contributes to the allure of admiration. It suggests that, in the absence of complete understanding, one is inclined to perceive the object of admiration through a lens of idealization, attributing qualities that may or may not be accurate. This idealization can result in a romanticized or exaggerated perception, as the mind fills in the gaps with imagination and desire.

Moreover, the quote underscores the notion that genuine understanding requires a depth of knowledge and insight that surpasses surface-level admiration. It prompts reflection on the nature of admiration itself, encouraging individuals to question whether their admiration is rooted in a true understanding or if it is merely a response to the allure of the unknown. In this sense, the quote serves as a reminder to approach admiration with a discerning eye, acknowledging the potential for misconceptions when faced with the complexities of that which is not fully understood.

In a broader context, the quote may resonate in various facets of life, from interpersonal relationships to intellectual pursuits. It encourages individuals to engage in a continuous journey of exploration and learning, recognizing that true admiration can only be cultivated through a sincere effort to unravel the layers of complexity and gain a profound understanding of the subject. Ultimately, the quote invites contemplation on the interplay between admiration and comprehension, prompting a nuanced examination of the dynamics that shape our perceptions and responses to the world around us.

Who said the quote?

The quote "You always admire what you really don't understand." is often attributed to Blaise Pascal (Quotes). Blaise Pascal was a notable philosopher, mathematician, and physicist, who made significant contributions to probability theory and philosophy of religion.

Reading is Smart. Applying is Smarter:  Apply

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.

 
Actualize Your Potential
Get my simplified process for realizing dreams (The exact process that enabled me to achieve 100 life goals in 10 years)
GET IT FREE:
Access my Start With WHY workbook for free, designed to guide you toward your purpose and the person you are meant to become
expert_advice
Align With Your Why
Elevate In Your Inbox
Get actionable insights, best practices, and wisdom you can apply — No hype, No fluff. Just practical ideas that might change your life.

Read The Art of Fully Living

There's no going back-once you embark on the journey you're meant to live, it's impossible to settle for anything less than your dreams.

Click here to learn more

Set Better Goals

Learn a better and smarter approach to setting and achieving goals. It's not just about what you want to achieve, but who you must become in the process.

Click here to learn more
Take The Free Test
Discover your areas for growth in just 5 minutes. Take the FREE self-evaluation test and pinpoint where to focus your efforts

Uplevel Your Game

Explore The Roadmaps

Access a self-paced online roadmap that turns big goals into realities, complete with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices from the world's best minds
Reclaim your freedom, escape 9-5, and live the life you were meant to live — A self-paced roadmap with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices
Join The Accelerator
Join a 10-week, personalized immersion that will accelerate your goal-attainment, elevate you to your next level, and turn your big dreams into reality.
Learn More
Contact
Thanks for reading. It makes a difference. A portion of all proceeds from our endeavors supports entrepreneurs in the developing world. View Impact...