Meaning: This quote by Samuel Richardson, a prominent 18th-century novelist, delves into the human tendency to rationalize our feelings and opinions. Richardson is highlighting the inherent bias in our perceptions and judgments. The quote suggests that when we approve of something, we tend to find numerous justifications for our approval, whereas when we dislike something, we are even more adept at finding reasons to justify our dislike.

One interpretation of this quote is that our subjective feelings often influence our reasoning and justifications. When we like something, we are prone to focus on its positive aspects and overlook or downplay any negative elements. Conversely, when we dislike something, we tend to magnify its flaws and disregard its positive attributes. This can lead to a skewed and unbalanced assessment of the object of our approval or dislike.

Richardson's quote also touches on the psychological phenomenon of confirmation bias, which refers to our tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in a way that confirms our preexisting beliefs or hypotheses. When we approve of something, we actively seek out and emphasize evidence that supports our approval, while downplaying or ignoring contradictory information. Similarly, when we dislike something, we are more likely to latch onto information that reinforces our negative feelings.

In addition, this quote underscores the complexity of human perception and the influence of emotions on our judgments. Our emotional responses can color our perceptions, leading us to construct justifications that align with our initial feelings. This can be particularly pronounced in situations where personal preferences, biases, or prejudices come into play.

Moreover, Richardson's quote may also be seen as a commentary on the power of our minds to construct narratives that validate our emotional responses. When we feel strongly about something, our minds are adept at crafting rationalizations to support our emotional stance, often without a thorough and unbiased examination of the facts.

In a broader sense, this quote serves as a reminder of the need for self-awareness and critical reflection in our assessments and judgments. It encourages us to recognize the potential for bias and emotional influence in our opinions, prompting us to approach our evaluations with greater objectivity and open-mindedness.

In conclusion, Samuel Richardson's quote encapsulates the human tendency to justify our feelings and opinions, whether positive or negative, with a multitude of reasons. It sheds light on the intricate interplay between emotions, perceptions, and reasoning, underscoring the need for self-awareness and critical scrutiny in our assessments. By acknowledging the potential for bias and emotional influence, we can strive to cultivate a more balanced and objective approach to our approvals and dislikes.