Meaning: This quote by Marianne Moore, a prominent American modernist poet, touches upon the complexities and limitations of human perception and judgment. Moore suggests that when one lacks personal experience in a particular matter, the risk of making errors in judgment is reduced. However, even when one does possess relevant experience, the act of appraising something or someone is more valuable as a means of understanding the appraiser themselves rather than the object of evaluation.

Marianne Moore's perspective on appraisal resonates with the broader theme of subjectivity in human perception and evaluation. She recognizes that our individual experiences, biases, and limitations heavily influence our ability to accurately assess and judge the world around us. This notion challenges the notion of objectivity and highlights the inherent complexity of human cognition and understanding.

The first part of the quote, "When one cannot appraise out of one's own experience, the temptation to blunder is minimized," suggests that when we are unfamiliar with a particular situation or subject, our lack of personal experience can act as a safeguard against making hasty or misguided judgments. This idea aligns with the concept of humility and the importance of acknowledging our limitations when confronted with unfamiliar territory. In such cases, it may be wiser to approach the matter with caution and an open mind, rather than assuming expertise or making uninformed assessments.

The second part of the quote, "but even when one can, appraisal seems chiefly useful as appraisal of the appraiser," delves into the deeper layers of human perception and judgment. Here, Moore suggests that even when we do have relevant experience or knowledge in a given area, the act of appraising something or someone may reveal more about the evaluator themselves than the object being evaluated. This insight underscores the intricate interplay between our internal mental landscapes and the external world. It implies that our assessments are influenced not only by the external stimuli but also by our unique perspectives, values, and psychological makeup.

Moore's perspective invites contemplation on the nature of judgment, perception, and self-awareness. It prompts us to consider the intricate dynamics at play when we form opinions, make decisions, and assess the world around us. Additionally, her insight aligns with the principles of introspection and self-reflection, highlighting the significance of understanding our own biases, motivations, and cognitive processes.

From a psychological standpoint, Moore's quote resonates with the concept of metacognition, which refers to the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes. It underscores the idea that our appraisals of external entities are deeply intertwined with our internal cognitive and emotional landscapes. This aligns with the broader understanding of human cognition as a subjective and multifaceted phenomenon shaped by individual experiences, beliefs, and perceptions.

In conclusion, Marianne Moore's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of human appraisal and the intricate relationship between personal experience, judgment, and self-awareness. Her perspective challenges us to approach the act of evaluation with humility, mindfulness, and a keen awareness of our own subjectivity. It serves as a reminder of the nuanced nature of human perception and the continuous interplay between the external world and our internal selves.