The nature of human perception of reality is determined by the information we receive and how we receive that information. Plato’s Allegory of the Cave is a famous metaphor that describes the impact of knowledge, and how its introduction or the lack of it can dictate our nature.

To set up the allegory, imagine you and I are part of a group of prisoners which have been chained in a dark cave since our childhood. We are chained such that we are forced to look at the blank wall in front of us, but we cannot look around in the cave, at each other, nor ourselves. It is not much fun, but this is our reality. On the wall we see shadows of figures “of men and other livings things.” We hear sounds and believe the shadows make these noises. We give these shadows names.

One day, we are freed. We can look around the cave. There is a bright fire which was behind us. You look at the fire and the light hurts your eyes. It makes it difficult to see that in actuality, puppets controlled by others were casting the shadows. I try to tell you what you are seeing is real, but you do not believe this version of reality, the true reality. Your eyes are pained, and fearful, you return to your imprisoned position staring at the wall. Staring at the reality you are accustomed to.

Suppose now I drag you against your will out of the cave and into the sunlight. You become angry and in pain once more as the bright light from the sun overwhelms your eyes and blinds you. But eventually, your eyes adjust, and you begin to see with your own eyes the true form of objects in the sunlight. Plato would say you used reasoning, in addition to assessing with your senses to adjust to the true reality.

Suddenly, you remember the other prisoners in the cave. Realizing the world outside the cave is superior, you return to the cave in an attempt to drag them from the cave on the same journey you just endured. Returning to the cave, though, you are blind in its darkness. The other prisoners believe the ordeal has harmed you and choose not to undertake the same journey. They threaten to kill you if you reach out for them in an attempt to drag them out of the cave.

How does the cave apply to our contemporary lives?

Our perception is shaped by cultural, societal, and personal factors. In philosophy, the result of thought are “ideas” and these, not the material world known and available to us through our senses, allows us to possess the most fundamental and highest understanding of reality. We are encouraged to build our knowledge of ideas, especially in philosophy, in the highest level. And those who ascend to such levels must not remain there, but must return to the cave, sharing their knowledge and insights. Though it is difficult to convince others to question their assumptions of reality and to seek knowledge beyond their perception, it is a duty to help others understand truth.

How did we become prisoners in the cave?

There are several ways in which we become “chained up” and limited in our perception and understanding of the world, of reality. Cultural and societal norms can introduce biases and prejudices that prevent us from seeing the truth about others. For centuries around the world, slavery was accepted and normalized. Some saw those that were enslaved as inferior, human rights denied, while the slavers enriched themselves through the monstrous practice.

Traumatic experience can create psychological barriers that can affect perception and understanding. Especially heightened fear response, causing those which suffered certain types of abuse to perceive situations as dangerous when they are not, impacting the ability to accurately perceive the world. Certain types of trauma can lead to changes in how the brain processes information.

Beyond personal experiences, genetics can play a factor as well. Chemicals like Agent Orange, the herbicide used in the Vietnam War by the United States military to clear forests, is known to be carcinogenic and can cause genetic cognitive issues impacting memory, attention, and decision-making. Multiple genetic birth defects can cause issues with perception as well.

Our education and the quality of the information we receive can also shape our perceptions and understanding of the world. Access to diverse perspectives and quality education can broaden our exposure, leading to a more nuanced and empathetic view of the world. Issues impacting education, like inequitable funding in America because public schools are funded by property taxes, means that low-income areas receive less funding than wealthy areas. This results in disparate education outcomes and is just one of many issues regarding the education system.

The media we consume and the technology we use to consume it also limit or shape our perceptions and understanding of the world. When we rely solely on one news source or social media platform for information, we may introduce false information and other biases, condemning us to life in the cave.

And, of course, religion has the potential to create a false perception of reality. These belief systems, while comforting to some, can involve strict dogmatic beliefs and principles which may forbid practitioners from engaging with other viewpoints, productive dialogue, or compromise. This can lead to an “us vs. them” mentality where outsiders are viewed negatively as an enemy. Such beliefs which are so narrow and rigid certainly create a false understanding of reality.

How can we emerge from the cave?

Though we all have limitations in how we perceive the world, and none of us can claim to see reality truly in its highest form, there are ways to strengthen our knowledge of the world around us with new thought patterns (new neural pathways) which reduce the distortion and limitations and expand our understanding. Here are just a few strategies for personal growth, or breaking free from the cave:

1. Travel: Providing opportunities to visit new places, engaging with different cultures, experiencing different ways of life, travel is by far an effective strategy for breaking free from the cave and broadening one's understanding of the world. Travel can also foster empathy as travelers find themselves appreciating this diverse and complex world. Travelers also gain a more profound understanding of the challenges faced by the people around the world. Though, travel alone is not enough.

2. Think critically: Developing and improving upon critical thinking skills is essential towards breaking free from the cave. Ask questions that examine ones own beliefs, engage in open-minded dialogue with others exploring different perspectives. Evaluate evidence, seek multiple sources on a given topic, and consider alternate viewpoints.

3. Pursue education: Read a wide range of books and articles that provide exposure to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Pursue formal education in a specific field. And engage in lifelong learning through online resources, workshops, and any method available.

4. Get therapy: By working with a therapist, individuals can explore their beliefs and assumptions in a supportive and guided format. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can be especially useful to change thought patterns from ones which tend to be negative to ones which are positive and likely more accurate.

Returning to the cave to help others

One doesn’t have to be one of the greats like Galileo, Nelson Mandela, or Gloria Steinem to help others. Returning to the cave will require challenging existing and entrenched beliefs, and will likely require championing intellectual progress and greater equality within society.

Share alternate viewpoints which challenge assumptions. Ask questions that encourage critical thinking, and ask for supporting evidence for given arguments on specific topics. Practice open mindedness and a willingness to listen. Be empathetic and inclusive, and create opportunities for other viewpoints to be entertained. Promote diversity and inclusion within your communities. Encourage travel and cultural exchange. Be curious in your life and encourage others to do the same. And above all, work together towards creating a more just and equitable society.