I hope by now that you can see from my comments to others that I do not equate materialism, or the notion that mind is guided by brain, with reductionism, which is the denial of the "reality" of mind as something separate from brain.
Certainly, as others have pointed out, we are far from conclusive knowledge on these matters. But I think you will agree that it is a fair statement that humans can only perceive as their perceptual faculties allow them to perceive. We cannot see beyond the visual spectrum, or hear beyond the audible range, etc.
There is, I submit, a "conceptual range" outside of which it is possible, but very difficult, to conceive. This is not a concern when it comes to everyday life or survival in the wilderness. But when it comes to the big picture, I think humans are somewhat limited perceptually. I think it is difficult for humans to be aware just how limited they are.
These limitations need not be a philosophical prison sentence, however. Just something we should be aware of.
no subject
Date: 2003-12-24 09:33 pm (UTC)Certainly, as others have pointed out, we are far from conclusive knowledge on these matters. But I think you will agree that it is a fair statement that humans can only perceive as their perceptual faculties allow them to perceive. We cannot see beyond the visual spectrum, or hear beyond the audible range, etc.
There is, I submit, a "conceptual range" outside of which it is possible, but very difficult, to conceive. This is not a concern when it comes to everyday life or survival in the wilderness. But when it comes to the big picture, I think humans are somewhat limited perceptually. I think it is difficult for humans to be aware just how limited they are.
These limitations need not be a philosophical prison sentence, however. Just something we should be aware of.