"Negative feedback is better that none. I would rather have a man hate me than overlook me. As long as he hates me I make a difference"
About this Quote
Hugh Prather's quote, "Negative feedback is better than none. I would rather have a guy dislike me than neglect me. As long as he dislikes me I make a distinction", speaks to the fundamental human desire for recognition and significance. At its core, this statement highlights the value of being observed and the effect of engagement, even if that engagement is negative.
Prather recommends that any feedback, even if undesirable, is more effective to being overlooked. This viewpoint draws attention to a key aspect of human psychology: the natural requirement for acknowledgment. To be overlooked is to be deemed irrelevant or unimportant. When we receive unfavorable feedback, it still suggests that our actions, words, or existence elicit a reaction strong enough to provoke hate. In this light, hate, though a negative feeling, serves as a testament to one's influence or impact.
Moreover, Prather's remark suggests that being disliked still indicates one is participating in the human experience in a meaningful method. Hatred emerges from interaction, confrontation, and the clashing of concepts or beliefs, which are all signs of life, engagement, and vigor. To dislike is to care enough to have formed a viewpoint, no matter how unfavorable it may be.
In addition, the statement reflects a specific strength. Preferring hate over indifference can be seen as a preparedness to confront criticism, controversy, and conflict as a path to significance and growth. It indicates an understanding that the presence of hardship or opposition typically accompanies endeavors that challenge standards, push boundaries, or supporter change.
In essence, Prather values the capability to evoke strong emotions and reactions over a life of obscurity. He acknowledges that significance often features the risk of attracting negative actions, however suggests that making an obvious effect, even through misfortune, is more suitable to being unnoticeable in the world.
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