Very interesting read indeed, not only a demonstration of how we sometimes don't slow down to appreciate beauty, but an example of how value is objective.
Take the most valued razor in all the world and hand it to an orthodox Jewish man that believes it is against scripture to put a blade to your face. To this man our treasure would most likely be nothing more than a fancy letter opener.
I'm sure a number of those people would have stopped if they knew better or had time, but a number of them probably wouldn't have cared either way.
I only have one real issue with this entire expiriment...
Pennies? REALLY? someone tipped him with f%#&ing PENNIES? What the hell is wrong with people? how bout you just throw your empty Starbucks cup at him when you're done with it.
It's one thing to not care for the art someone is trying to share with you, even if you choose to completely ignore it. But to actually stop and take the time to dig in your pockets to toss an insult in their hat. That's not just rude, that is going out of your way to be rude.