Who coined the phrase perception is reality?

The phrase “perception is reality” has been attributed to political strategist Lee Atwater. Atwater is perhaps best known for his work on George H.W. Bush’s campaign in the late 80’s. He often used the phrase when talking about the importance of public relations to campaigning and was said to be “ahead of his time” with this idea. His promising consulting career was cut short when he died of a brain tumour at the age of 40. – The Lee Atwater Story

However, the phrase is absolutely inaccurate: authors, actors, politicians and others, have made their living for thousands of years based on the fundamental fact that perception is not reality. Your perception can never be better than your biases and the biases of whoever is directing your attention in writing, in video, or in person. Your perception can be changed by circumstances, situations, and distractions. Your perception is the worst possible evidence of reality. Consider this classic psychological experiment…

Anybody that uses that phrase, thinks their “perception” is “reality”, which is incredibly proud and arrogant. If you’re still with me, you’re probably wondering how this is a Bible truth.

A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. The one who gives an answer before he listens — this is foolishness and disgrace for him. The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it. The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him. (Proverbs 18 HCSB)

Please be wiser than this. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your “perception” is “reality.” And consider these thoughts…

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. (Proverbs 14:29)

Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city. (Proverbs 16:32)

The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. (Proverbs 17:27)

Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them. (Proverbs 29:20)

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools. (Ecclesiastes 7:9)

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. (James 1:19-21)

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