Those who judge must take all aspects of an individual's personality into account. It is only through literature that one can put oneself in someone else's shoes and understand the other's different and contradictory sides and refrain from becoming too ruthless. Outside the sphere of literature only one aspect of individuals is revealed. But if you understand their different dimensions you cannot easily murder them…
📖 Azar Nafisi
In the context of understanding human complexity, judging others requires a comprehensive view of their multifaceted personalities. According to Azar Nafisi in "Reading Lolita in Tehran," literature offers a unique lens through which we can empathize with others and grasp their contradictions, which helps temper our judgments. This broader perspective is crucial, as it allows us to see beyond surface-level impressions and recognize the richness of individual identities.
Nafisi argues that outside of literature, we often encounter only a single facet of people, which can lead to harsh assessments. By engaging with literature, we gain insight into the various dimensions of individuals, promoting sympathy rather than cruelty. Understanding these complexities fosters compassion and makes it less likely that we would resort to extreme actions, like violence or judgment, against others.
