I previously discussed Pierre Bourdieu’s take on taste, but suspect that post went too deep. Let’s see what we can do with his findings, and how they they stack up against real-world games we play as collectors.
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The Collector’s Dilemma
Consider this: Would you rather own a Rolex Submariner or an Invicta Pro Diver? In theory, both are dive watches with similar specs, yet we all ‘know’ the Rolex will get nods of approval at a watch meetup while the Invicta might get you kicked out. Is the Rolex really that much better, or have we simply internalised certain notions of prestige and value which cause us to perceive it that way?
The reality in our world is when it comes to social capital, not all watches are created equal. Owning certain pieces can, and does, elevate one’s status among other collectors. We may not always be conscious of it, but on some level our collections are shaped by a desire to fit in and be respected by our peers.
Recalling one of Bourdieu’s ideas - we like things if the liking of these things might benefit us. If that’s the case, taste is a function of: (1) One’s understanding of the cultural and social context when it comes to things one could like; and (2) One’s cultural and social knowledge to know what exactly to like or avoid.
In watch collector speak: Taste is a function of two things. In (1) above, that is understanding where Rolex stands in relation to Hublot, or where Journe stands in relation to Moser… that’s context and for the most part, this context is widely understood (I think!). Then (2) is more about knowing what to say when a collector asks what your favourite brands are, or knowing not to discuss finishing quality when you talk about Rolex which is a mass-produced watch.
In essence, your brain functions much like a strategist playing out game theory scenarios. It assesses the social landscape: Are Journes the favoured choice among these peers? Do they understand what Romain Gauthier actually does in his manufacture? Could embracing Roger Smith boost or harm your social capital? Do you grasp the norms surrounding haute horology well enough to fit in seamlessly? If the answers align, then it’s time to develop a liking for whatever brand seems appropriate.
What’s intriguing, albeit unsettling, is that much of this process occurs beneath the surface of conscious thought. As social beings, we instinctively pick up on cues and adjust our behaviour to navigate social hierarchies, all without actual conscious deliberation.
But does that seem correct to you? Or at least, is that all that’s going on?
When you look at this picture, what do you think? I can’t help but think the baggy shirts look insane, and that’s not even the half of it. Given who I am, it seems obvious I wouldn’t like them. Is that accurate? If we were in the 80’s, I’d probably think these outfits were okay, just like everyone else. And if it was the 1900s, I might wonder why they aren’t wearing tall hats and tailored suits.
So why might we dislike these outfits? Well, since the 1980s, fashion has changed, and we’ve picked up on those changes. We’ve picked up on them so much that they feel like they're just a part of us now. Our “beliefs.” So if random shifts in culture can go that deep into our brains, what else is sneaking in there without us noticing?
The Glass Bead Game
The Glass Bead Game, or “Das Glasperlenspiel,” serves as the central focus of Nobel Prizewinner Herman Hesse’s novel. Hesse presents a richly detailed exploration of a future society set in a fictional place, Castalia, where monastic scholars dedicate themselves to the practice of the Glass Bead Game. This game, shrouded in mystery and complexity, serves as a synthesis of all human knowledge, aiming to link disparate fields such as music, mathematics, philosophy, and history into some sort of ‘harmonious whole.’
At the center of the narrative is Joseph Knecht, who begins his journey by encountering the enigmatic Music Master, a pivotal figure in Castalia. Through his experiences within the monastic order, Knecht grapples with the rules and rituals of Castalian life, as well as the broader implications of the Glass Bead Game on society.
As Knecht ascends within Castalia, he forms connections with influential figures, including members of the upper class, and embarks on missions to bridge the gap between Castalia and the outside world, particularly the Catholic Church. His dedication to the Glass Bead Game is unwavering, and he eventually achieves the prestigious title of Magister Ludi, or Master of the Game.
Throughout the novel, Hesse delves into philosophical inquiries regarding the role of intellectuals in society. Knecht’s journey prompts him to question whether the pursuit of knowledge within Castalia truly serves humanity… or simply perpetuates some form of a circle-jerk for people inclined towards intellectualism. He grapples with the tension between specialisation and broader understanding, recognising the limitations of theoretical pursuits which are blatantly disconnected from the real world.