“We do not seek for truth in the abstract… Every man sees what he looks for, and hears what he listens for, and nothing else.”
This powerful observation comes from the acclaimed playwright George Bernard Shaw. It cuts to the core of human perception and bias. The words highlight a fundamental aspect of our psychology. We often find what we expect to find. Our beliefs shape our reality more than objective truth does. This idea was revolutionary when Shaw wrote it. Moreover, it remains incredibly relevant in our modern, information-saturated world.
Shaw penned this line for his play Caesar and Cleopatra, which he wrote in 1898. Source . The character Caesar speaks these words. He uses them to explain the nature of human understanding and its limitations. In the context of the play, the quote reveals Caesar’s cynical yet realistic view of people. He understands that their perceptions are not pure reflections of the world. Instead, they are filtered through personal desires, fears, and pre-existing notions.
The Psychology Behind the Words
The quote perfectly describes a cognitive phenomenon now known as confirmation bias. This is the tendency to search for, interpret, and recall information that confirms one’s prior beliefs. Essentially, we favor information that supports what we already think is true. We also tend to ignore or dismiss evidence that contradicts our views. This mental shortcut helps us process information quickly. However, it can also lock us into our own echo chambers, preventing growth and understanding.
For example, if you believe a certain political party is corrupt, you will likely notice every news story about their scandals. Conversely, you might overlook or rationalize similar behavior from the party you support. Your mind actively seeks evidence to validate your initial stance. Shaw’s insight was that this isn’t a rare flaw. It is a universal human trait. Every person sees the world through a unique lens crafted from their own experiences and expectations.
Confirmation Bias in the Digital Age
Shaw’s observation has become even more potent in the age of the internet and social media. Algorithms curate our news feeds. They show us content they know we will like and agree with. This creates a personalized reality for each user. Consequently, our existing beliefs are constantly reinforced. We are rarely exposed to challenging or opposing viewpoints. This digital environment makes it easier than ever to only see what we look for and hear what we listen for.
This can have significant consequences. It can deepen social and political divides. Furthermore, it can make constructive dialogue nearly impossible. When two people operate from completely different sets of information, finding common ground becomes a monumental task. The quote serves as a crucial warning about the dangers of living in these self-created bubbles.
Overcoming Our Built-in Bias
While this tendency is a natural part of human cognition, we are not powerless against it. Recognizing that we have this bias is the essential first step. By acknowledging that our perception is subjective, we can begin to question our own conclusions. Actively seeking out different perspectives is a powerful antidote. This means reading publications you disagree with, listening to people with different life experiences, and challenging your own assumptions.
It requires a conscious effort to look for the whole truth, not just the parts that feel comfortable. You can practice this by asking critical questions. For instance, what evidence might prove me wrong? Am I considering all sides of this issue? This practice of intellectual humility can help break the cycle of confirmation bias. Ultimately, Shaw’s quote is not just a cynical statement. It is an invitation to become more aware and deliberate thinkers. It challenges us to look beyond our own filters and strive for a more complete understanding of the world.