Meaning: The quote "Errors of taste are very often the outward sign of a deep fault of sensibility" by Jonathan Miller, an English theatre and opera director, actor, author, and television presenter, suggests that a person's inability to discern good taste and make sound judgments in matters of aesthetics is indicative of a deeper underlying issue related to their ability to perceive and appreciate the finer aspects of life. In this quote, Miller emphasizes the connection between one's sense of taste and their sensibility, implying that a lack of refinement in taste is a manifestation of a more profound deficiency in one's ability to recognize and respond to beauty and quality.

Jonathan Miller's quote reflects the idea that an individual's aesthetic sensibility is closely linked to their emotional and intellectual capacity to appreciate art, culture, and the world around them. The concept of "errors of taste" refers to the subjective nature of aesthetic judgment, where individuals may make choices or express preferences that are considered by others to be lacking in refinement or sophistication. This can encompass a wide range of areas, including fashion, art, literature, music, and even social behavior. When someone displays consistent errors of taste, it may indicate a deeper issue with their sensibility, which encompasses their emotional and intellectual responsiveness to the world.

Miller's assertion implies that an individual's ability to discern good taste is not merely a superficial concern, but rather a reflection of their broader sensibility, which encompasses their emotional and intellectual receptivity to the world around them. Sensibility, in this context, refers to an individual's capacity for emotional and aesthetic responsiveness, their ability to perceive and appreciate beauty, and their sensitivity to the nuances of human experience. A deep fault of sensibility suggests a deficiency in this capacity, which can manifest in the form of errors of taste.

In the realm of art and cultural criticism, the quote can be interpreted as a call for deeper introspection and understanding of the underlying factors that influence an individual's aesthetic preferences and judgments. It encourages us to consider the broader context of an individual's sensibility and emotional intelligence when evaluating their taste and aesthetic choices. Rather than simply dismissing someone's errors of taste as mere personal preference or lack of exposure, this quote prompts us to consider the possibility of deeper underlying issues that may be influencing their aesthetic sensibility.

Furthermore, the quote can be applied to the broader societal and cultural context, where the prevalence of errors of taste may be seen as symptomatic of deeper societal issues related to the cultivation of sensibility and aesthetic education. It raises questions about the role of education, exposure to diverse cultural experiences, and the development of emotional and aesthetic intelligence in shaping individuals' ability to discern good taste.

In conclusion, Jonathan Miller's quote "Errors of taste are very often the outward sign of a deep fault of sensibility" highlights the interconnectedness of aesthetic judgment and sensibility, suggesting that errors of taste may signify deeper underlying issues related to an individual's emotional and intellectual responsiveness to the world. It prompts us to consider the broader context of an individual's sensibility and emotional intelligence when evaluating their aesthetic choices, and it encourages reflection on the societal and cultural factors that shape individuals' capacity for discerning good taste.