Brain in a Vat
We will now have a look at how we can come to a conclusion that what we think we know is actually reality, a main idea in epistemology. We will be looking at concepts of how we can actually know anything at all:
Skepticism and Rationalism are the main themes in this section.
Please read the thought experiment, "The Brain in the Vat" on p. 201 of the text. Then respond to this question:
How do you know you are not a brain in a vat and how can you know this for certain?"
in your Philosophy Bytes green folder. Be prepared that another person in the class will read your work on this so that they can comment on it.
Tomorrow we will begin our study of The Matrix.
Some of the ideas that the class came up with for The Brain in a Vat include:
1. Circular argument - how could we ever come up with the idea of being a Brain in a Vat?
2. Breakdown of the probability.
3. Scientists could never actually know the inner workings of the mind.
4. The reality and truth experienced by someone as a brain in a vat would still be the truth and reality to that person (i.e. perception).
5. Snowdon reference - some connection here.
6. It's not scientifically possible therefore it's a ridiculous notion - rationalization proves that this can't happen.
7. No evidence can possible disprove that you're not a brain in a vat (???), ahh, but the evidence could be simulated.
8. Not enough knowledge - it's just an idea where there are no other actual events, past or present . . .
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