Des goûts et des couleurs, on ne discute pas

Definition

This French expression translates to 'When it comes to tastes and colors, one does not discuss.' It emphasizes the idea that personal preferences, particularly in aesthetics and art, are subjective and can vary greatly among individuals. This saying encourages respect for differing opinions and highlights the idea that what may be pleasing to one person might not be to another, reflecting the diversity of human experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The expression originates from the recognition that personal tastes in art, music, fashion, and other forms of expression are highly individual and can lead to disagreements.
2. It encourages an open-minded attitude towards differing opinions and promotes the idea that everyone is entitled to their own preferences.
3. In discussions about art or literature, invoking this phrase can diffuse tension when participants have strongly differing viewpoints.
4. This saying reflects a broader cultural acceptance of diversity and individuality within French-speaking societies.
5. It serves as a reminder that valuing subjective experiences can enrich conversations and foster mutual respect.

Review Questions

• How does the expression 'Des goûts et des couleurs, on ne discute pas' encourage open-mindedness in discussions about art?
  • The expression promotes open-mindedness by emphasizing that everyone has unique tastes and preferences that should be respected. When discussing art, it's common for people to have differing opinions; this saying reminds us that those differences are valid and shouldn't lead to arguments. By acknowledging that tastes are subjective, conversations can remain constructive and appreciative rather than contentious.
• In what ways does this phrase relate to the concept of subjectivity in human experience?
  • This phrase relates to subjectivity by highlighting that personal preferences in aesthetics, such as colors and artistic styles, are inherently individual. Each person's experiences and feelings shape their tastes, which means there is no universal standard for what is considered beautiful or appealing. Understanding this subjectivity fosters an environment where different perspectives are valued rather than dismissed.
• Analyze the implications of 'Des goûts et des couleurs, on ne discute pas' in the context of cultural relativism and global interactions.
  • The phrase has significant implications in the context of cultural relativism as it underscores the importance of respecting diverse cultural expressions and preferences. In an increasingly globalized world, recognizing that tastes in art, music, and fashion vary across cultures can lead to greater empathy and understanding. This perspective helps mitigate cultural misunderstandings and promotes dialogue that appreciates differences instead of enforcing a singular viewpoint.

Related terms

Subjectivity: The quality of being based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.

Aesthetics: A branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of beauty, art, and taste, as well as the creation and appreciation of beauty.

Cultural relativism: The principle of understanding other cultures in their own context rather than judging them by the standards of one's own culture.