Alexander Pope's Essay On Criticism

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Critics can sometimes be ruthless in passing unfavorable judgment on the qualities, character or work of a person. Many times they are insensitive to the demoralizing effects of their words on the person criticized. When Aristotle first used the word 'criticism' he meant it to be a standard of judgment and not a fault finding exercise.

Criticism can be constructive or destructive. The aim of constructive criticism is to see a change for the better in the person criticized. The reasons will be clearly stated as well as suggestions offered to rectify the problem. Many times, a friend or a relative is requested to honestly criticize a person's appearance or behaviour. In such cases, one must be ready to accept the view of the other person, in …show more content…

The end result must be to bring about a change that improves the quality of life.

• The person should be sufficiently knowledgeable about the subject which has come under criticism. For example, a cook may not be able to criticize the work of a beautician. In his essay on Criticism, Alexander Pope says, "A little learning is a dangerous thing."

• There should be genuine concern for the other person. Mary Kay Ash a cosmetologist counsels "Sandwich each bit of criticism between two layers of praise." A generous critic will bring out the best in the person he criticizes.

Reasons for Destructive and Unjustifiable Criticism:

1. Human nature is such that some people derive pleasure from criticizing others. It may be due to jealousy of someone in a better position vis-à-vis beauty, education, wealth, power or influence.

2. Ignorance: The critic may not have a clue about the problem or may have his own blinkered view of it. Many things may not be acceptable to him because of his lack of knowledge. "Fools rush where angels fear to tread." (Alexander

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