Meaning: The quote “Taste is more to do with manners than appearances. Taste is both myth and reality; it is not a style” by Stephen Bayley, a prominent design critic and author, encapsulates the complex and multifaceted nature of taste. In this thought-provoking statement, Bayley challenges the conventional understanding of taste as merely a matter of personal preference or aesthetic judgment. Instead, he suggests that taste is deeply intertwined with manners, behavior, and the social context in which it operates. His assertion also emphasizes the duality of taste, acknowledging its existence as both a subjective construct and an objective reality that extends beyond superficial appearances. This quote invites us to delve deeper into the intricate nature of taste, exploring its cultural, psychological, and philosophical dimensions.

At its core, the quote underscores the idea that taste is not solely determined by visual or sensory stimuli, but also by the way individuals conduct themselves and interact with the world around them. It implies that good taste is not just about selecting visually pleasing objects or experiences, but also about embodying a certain level of refinement, discernment, and consideration for others. By linking taste to manners, Bayley challenges us to consider the social and ethical dimensions of aesthetic judgment, suggesting that our choices and preferences are inherently intertwined with our behavior and interactions within society.

Furthermore, Bayley’s assertion that taste is both myth and reality speaks to the enigmatic and elusive nature of taste. On one hand, taste can be seen as a subjective construct, shaped by personal experiences, cultural influences, and individual inclinations. This subjective aspect of taste is what gives rise to the diversity of aesthetic preferences and artistic expressions across different societies and historical periods. However, taste also possesses an objective reality, grounded in principles of harmony, proportion, and cultural significance that transcend individual perceptions. This dual nature of taste raises questions about the tension between personal subjectivity and universal standards, as well as the role of tradition, education, and exposure in shaping our understanding of what is considered tasteful.

Moreover, the assertion that taste is not a style challenges the tendency to reduce taste to a set of fashionable trends or design conventions. By distancing taste from mere stylistic preferences, Bayley emphasizes that taste encompasses a broader set of values, attitudes, and sensibilities that go beyond fleeting fashions. This perspective encourages us to look beyond surface-level aesthetics and consider the underlying principles and intentions that inform our choices and expressions of taste.

In conclusion, Stephen Bayley’s quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of taste, urging us to reconsider our understanding of this complex and nuanced concept. By highlighting the connection between taste and manners, the duality of taste as both myth and reality, and the distinction between taste and style, Bayley prompts us to reflect on the intricate interplay of personal, social, and cultural factors that shape our perceptions of what is tasteful. Ultimately, this quote challenges us to approach taste with a more comprehensive and critical mindset, recognizing its profound implications for how we engage with the world and with each other.