6.2 Problems with Resemblance

Updated: January 23, 2025

University of Oxford


Summary

The video challenges the traditional views of Berkeley and Hume on primary and secondary qualities by asserting that primary qualities truly exist in bodies themselves, rather than just in our ideas. It explores the intrinsic nature of colors and smells, questioning whether they can exist beyond the mind's perception. The discussion delves into how primary qualities, such as shapes, are represented in the real world and how attributes like solidity are understood as powers within bodies. This thought-provoking dialogue sheds light on the abstract properties of primary qualities and their relationship to our perception of the physical world.


Distinction Between Primary and Secondary Qualities

The distinction between primary and secondary qualities is not as Berkeley and Hume thought. Primary qualities are not in objects, but rather the ideas of primary qualities truly exist in the bodies themselves. There is nothing like our ideas existing in the bodies, highlighting the difference between primary and secondary qualities.

Perception of Colors and Smells

Exploring the intrinsic nature of colors and smells. Discussing how smells and colors are perceived and whether they can exist outside the mind's perception. Delving into the phenomenal ideas of colors and scents and how they relate to real-world objects.

Abstract Concept of Primary Qualities

Examining the abstract and structural properties of primary qualities. Understanding primary qualities as shapes and their abstract representation in the real world. Discussing the attribution of properties to objects and the mental picture of them.

Solidity and Body

Investigating the concept of solidity in relation to bodies. Discussing how solidity is understood as a power or disposition in bodies. Exploring the idea of bodies as solid and the concept of solidity in the context of objects.


FAQ

Q: What are primary and secondary qualities according to Berkeley and Hume?

A: Primary qualities are qualities that truly exist in the bodies themselves, while secondary qualities are based on ideas existing in the mind's perception.

Q: Can smells and colors exist outside of the mind's perception?

A: The discussion revolves around whether smells and colors can exist independently of how they are perceived by the mind.

Q: How are primary qualities defined in the context of shapes?

A: Primary qualities are understood as shapes with abstract representations in the real world, highlighting the structural properties they possess.

Q: What is the concept of solidity in relation to bodies?

A: Solidity is understood as a power or disposition in bodies, contributing to the understanding of objects as solid entities.

Q: How do colors and scents relate to real-world objects?

A: The discussion delves into the phenomenal ideas of colors and scents and how they are attributed to or perceived in relation to tangible objects.

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