what does this quote mean:
"We become what we behold. We shape our tools and then our tools shape us."
help asap please
The quote "We become what we behold. We shape our tools and then our tools shape us" holds a profound meaning about the influence of our actions and the impact they have on us.
To unpack the quote, let's break it down into two parts:
1. "We become what we behold": This phrase suggests that our thoughts, beliefs, and actions are shaped by what we consistently focus on or pay attention to. It implies that our perceptions and observations shape our understanding of the world, and consequently, our behaviors and attitudes align with what we perceive and interact with.
2. "We shape our tools and then our tools shape us": This part emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between humans and the tools or technologies we create. Initially, we design tools to serve specific purposes or meet certain needs. However, as we continue to use these tools, they begin to influence and shape our behavior, perceptions, and even our identity. In other words, our tools not only serve us but also have the ability to transform us in significant ways.
Overall, this quote suggests that our actions, observations, and the tools we use have a reciprocal relationship where they shape and mold us, influencing how we perceive and interact with the world around us.
To deepen your understanding of the quote and its context, it can be helpful to explore the background of the author, Marshall McLuhan, who was a prominent philosopher and media theorist. Additionally, reading some of his works, such as "Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man," can provide further insights into his ideas about technology, media, and their impact on society.