When one lacks personal experience to judge a situation or idea accurately, there is less chance of making mistakes based on misunderstanding or ignorance. This statement suggests that without firsthand knowledge, people are generally cautious and avoid forming opinions that might be incorrect. However, when someone does have direct experience, the ability to evaluate situations can serve as an indicator of their own competence and understanding rather than just a critique of what they are examining.
The quote delves into how judgment is not merely about assessing others or external matters but also reveals aspects of oneself. When we critically appraise something from personal experience, our evaluation often reflects back on us by revealing our biases, knowledge gaps, and intellectual strengths. Therefore, the act of evaluating can be as much a reflection on one's own capabilities as it is an assessment of what is being evaluated.
Marianne Moore was an influential American poet known for her unique style that combined precision with wit and imagination. Her work often explored themes of observation, criticism, and the complexities of human perception, which aligns closely with this particular quote about judgment and self-reflection.
