"The perceived world is the always presupposed foundation of all rationality, all value and all existence. This thesis does not destroy either rationality or the absolute. It only tries to bring them down to earth." Merleau-Ponty ("The Visible and the Invisible", 1968) keep exploring! P.S. Thank you for visiting me here on the humanfactor.blog! If you enjoyed … Continue reading Merleau-Ponty on the Perceived World
Maurice Merleau-Ponty on Perception
In his highly influential work Phenomenology of Perception (originally published in 1945), the French philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty wrote the following about perception. These words can remind us that whatever we perceive through our senses, already has a sense. Otherwise, we could not perceive 'it' - 'it' already being 'something'. "Perception is precisely this act that creates, … Continue reading Maurice Merleau-Ponty on Perception
Visual Illusions and Context
In an interesting passage from his influential work Phenomenology of Perception (originally published in 1945), philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty refers to the visual illusion where two equally long lines appear different. It is known as the Müller-Lyer illusion (see the picture below). Merleau-Ponty suggests that we are mistaken to think of these lines as equal or unequal … Continue reading Visual Illusions and Context
Maurice Merleau-Ponty on Perception
The 20th-century French philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty studied human perception his entire career. He stressed the absolutely fundamental, primary nature of our perception - being there and situating us in the world before any analysis, judgment, explanation or observation. Here is what he says in the "Preface" of his highly influential work Phenomenology of Perception (originally published … Continue reading Maurice Merleau-Ponty on Perception
Spreading the Word: Different Worlds We Experience
When we experience the world and interpret its meaning, it is not so much "I'll believe it when I see it", it is rather "I will see it if I believe it". And - in the way that I believe it to be. Curious? Then you might be interested in this short BBC Ideas video: … Continue reading Spreading the Word: Different Worlds We Experience
Let’s Talk Miracles – What Are They?
Last year around this time I wrote about miracles. More specifically, the 18th century Scottish philosopher's David Hume's views on them. It is that season again when my thoughts, at least sometimes, turn to the topic of miracles. Perhaps especially this year. Wouldn't the world really need a few good miracles now! It turns out, … Continue reading Let’s Talk Miracles – What Are They?
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