Single Idea 22449

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / B. Perception / 5. Interpretation]

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 Reference

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.