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Full Idea
The introduction of the term 'sense-datum' is a means of referring to appearances without prejudging the question of what it is, if anything, that they are appearances of.
Gist of Idea
The concept of sense-data allows us to discuss appearances without worrying about reality
Source
A.J. Ayer (Phenomenalism [1947], §1)
Book Ref
Ayer,A.J.: 'Philosophical Essays' [Macmillan 1965], p.131
2614 | Modern phenomenalism holds that objects are logical constructions out of sense-data [Ayer] |
2615 | The concept of sense-data allows us to discuss appearances without worrying about reality [Ayer] |