Single Idea 2781

[catalogued under 7. Existence / D. Theories of Reality / 2. Realism]

Full Idea

Realism in the theory of perception is that objects we perceive usually do exist, and retain some at least of the properties we perceive them as having.

Gist of Idea

Realism says that most perceived objects exist, and have some of their perceived properties

Source

Jonathan Dancy (Intro to Contemporary Epistemology [1985], 10.2)

Book Reference

Dancy,Jonathan: 'Introduction to Contemporary Epistemology' [Blackwell 1985], p.144


A Reaction

I don't see the bit about properties as essential. We could be realists, but totally mistaken about the nature of reality. There's just something there. Though personally I endorse primary qualities.