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Full Idea
One might think that 'is red' means the same as 'seems red to most people', forgetting that when asked if an object is red we look at it to see if it is red, and not in order to estimate the reaction that others will have to it.
Gist of Idea
When we say 'is red' we don't mean 'seems red to most people'
Source
Philippa Foot (Moral Relativism [1979], p.23)
Book Ref
Foot,Philippa: 'Moral Dilemmas' [OUP 2002], p.23
A Reaction
True, but we are conscious of our own reliability as observers (e.g. if colourblind, or with poor hearing or eyesight). I don't take my glasses off, have a look, and pronounce that the object is blurred. Ordinary language philosophy in action.
22449 | When we say 'is red' we don't mean 'seems red to most people' [Foot] |
22451 | All people need affection, cooperation, community and help in trouble [Foot] |
22452 | Do we have a concept of value, other than wanting something, or making an effort to get it? [Foot] |