Single Idea 15248

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / B. Perception / 6. Inference in Perception]

Full Idea

To the objection that one is never aware of inferences in sensation, the unconvincing reply comes that such inferences are automatic, telescoped, non-discursive and unconscious.

Gist of Idea

Inference in perception is unconvincingly defended as non-conscious and almost instantaneous

Source

Harré,R./Madden,E.H. (Causal Powers [1975], 3.II)

Book Reference

Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.59


A Reaction

I think the 'unconvincing' reply is a bit more convincing in the light of modern research on the brain, which presents everything it does in a far less conscious light than the traditional view. Even reason seems barely conscious.