[ Filter ]

Our brains learn to filter the potential stimuli that is bombarding us at any moment.  Over time we are able to develop the ability to effectively block the unessential noise, light, pressure, or irritations that come our way.  Similarly, we are also always having to filter abstract inputs such as information, emotions, instincts, and feelings. Physical and abstract inputs are filtered differently by different people: this is part of a culture.

The evidence that filters work is highlighted when they aren’t effective.  It’s like having a bad back: you don’t realise how important it is, until it’s not working right.