Perception vs. Judgment

[MarieVeronica]

Dear CAF. Some questions… for your consideration.

What is the difference between “perception” and “judgment”? (Example: In perceiving the actions/words of another, versus judging the actions/words of another).

When does “perception” become “judgment”?

How can we keep “perception” from becoming “judgment”?

This has been swirling around in my scrupulous little noggin’ for awhile . And I can’t remember, if I’ve seen it here before. Your prayerful knowledge and opinions are greatly appreciated. Thank you and God bless.

 

[1ke]

There isn’t anything wrong with judging the actions and words of another against the objective moral criteria of the divine or Church law. In fact, we are called to instruct the ignorant and we are also called to fraternal correction.

The only thing we cannot “judge” is the state of a person’s soul, because we do not know their interior disposition, and whether or not they have full knowledge or free will.

 

[MarieVeronica]

Thanks “1ke”. I appreciate your answer.

I’m asking about this, because something happened today, which was “unsettling”. A friend called me from work (where I used to work, too… and so we have quite a few “common” friends). She called me, in a public place… where there were many people sitting around, and she started questioning me… in a way, which made me feel (perception? judgment?) uncomfortable and strange.

In other words, there were people sitting around… listening to her (she put one of them on the phone, to say “hi”), as she spoke to me… about our personal circumstances, which led to having to quit my job.

Sorry if this sounds vague or disjointed. I’m trying NOT to be overly descriptive, for fear of being judgmental. I guess what I’m trying to find out, is if I have “judged” my friend’s intentions for calling me, in a public place. Or, did I simply perceive the circumstances (as described above). I don’t understand her reasons for calling me in a public place, and asking me questions to which she already knows the answers. And I am afraid that I have “judged” her.

Any one else have an opinion?

 

[Ruthie]

Kevin’s answer is a good one.

I think where judgment crosses the line is when it goes from being prudential to being merely critical. I.e. “I think this person is being dishonest with me” versus “I think this person should not have worn those clothes.”

In your case, I think your reaction to your friend’s questions was good instinct, and that her behavior was inappropriate.

20-20 hindsight suggests asking “Why are you asking me questions to which you already know the answer?” But I’ll admit right up front that I’d probably be tongue-tied if it ever happened to me!

Ruthie

 

[MarieVeronica]

“I think this person is being dishonest with me” versus “I think this person should not have worn those clothes.”

Thank you, Ruthie. This is very helpful. Both you and Kevin’s answers have helped me to figure out what happened. God bless you both.