All men whilst they are awake are in one common world; but each of them, when he is asleep, is in a world of his own

All men whilst they are awake are in one common world; but each of them, when he is asleep, is in a world of his own

The quote “All men whilst they are awake are in one common world; but each of them, when he is asleep, is in a world of his own” holds a profound truth about the nature of human consciousness and perception. This idea can be further explored through the lens of Plutarch, a Greek historian, biographer, and essayist who lived during the first century AD.

Plutarch was known for his philosophical writings, particularly his exploration of the complexities of human nature and the diversity of individual experiences. In his work, Plutarch often delved into the idea that each person has their own unique perspective and understanding of the world around them. This concept is reflected in the quote, as it suggests that when we are awake and interacting with others, we are all part of a shared reality. However, when we are asleep and dreaming, we retreat into our own inner world, separate from the external world that we all inhabit while awake.

Plutarch’s writings often emphasized the importance of self-reflection and introspection in order to better understand oneself and one’s place in the world. He believed that by examining our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences, we could gain a deeper insight into the complexities of human existence. This idea aligns with the notion that each person has their own unique dream world, separate from the waking world that we all share.

Furthermore, Plutarch’s exploration of the diversity of human experiences and perspectives can also be seen in the quote. He recognized that each individual has their own unique thoughts, emotions, and dreams that shape their understanding of the world. This diversity of experiences is what makes each person’s dream world distinct and personal to them.