Relative Reality: The Deception of the Contrast Effect

We navigate the world believing we can objectively judge the quality, price, or beauty of anything we encounter. In truth, the human brain is entirely incapable of evaluating anything in a vacuum. We do not measure absolute value; we only measure relative differences. This biological shortcut is known as the Contrast Effect. If you plunge your hand into freezing water, a mildly cool room will su...