2.6 George Berkeley and Idealism
Updated: January 23, 2025
Summary
The video provides an overview of Descartes and Cartisianism, focusing on their influence in France. It discusses the concept of cause and effect through the example of billiard balls, illustrating the necessary connection between events. The video explores occasionalism and the role of God as the primary cause, along with Berkeley's theory of perception that all objects are created by God. It delves into the skeptical problem of knowing real physical objects and the distinction between primary and secondary qualities. Additionally, it touches on Berkeley's denial of physical objects and his support for the predictive power of physical science.
Introduction to Descartes and Cartisianism
Brief overview of Descartes and Cartisianism, influential in France at the time.
Understanding Cause and Effect
Discussion on the concept of cause and effect, using the example of billiard balls to illustrate necessary connection between events.
Occasionalism and God's Role
Exploration of occasionalism and the role of God as the primary cause of events, with a focus on billiard ball example.
Barkley's Theory of Perception
Explanation of Barkley's theory of perception, emphasizing the idea that all objects are created by God.
Skeptical Problem and Primary/Secondary Qualities
Discussion on the skeptical problem of knowing real physical objects and the distinction between primary and secondary qualities.
Barkley's Denial of Physical Science
Overview of Barkley's denial of physical objects and his support for the predictive power of physical science.
FAQ
Q: What is Cartesianism?
A: Cartesianism refers to the philosophical system developed by René Descartes, which emphasizes rationalism and dualism.
Q: How is the concept of cause and effect discussed in relation to billiard balls?
A: The concept of cause and effect is illustrated using billiard balls to show the necessary connection between events. When one ball hits another, it causes the second ball to move.
Q: What is occasionalism?
A: Occasionalism is the philosophical doctrine that states that all events are caused directly by God, who is the primary cause of all actions in the universe.
Q: What is Barkley's theory of perception?
A: Barkley's theory of perception posits that all objects are created by God and that our perception of these objects is mediated by divine intervention.
Q: What is the skeptical problem of knowing real physical objects?
A: The skeptical problem of knowing real physical objects refers to the challenge of determining whether our perceptions accurately represent external reality, especially in terms of distinguishing between primary qualities (inherent in objects) and secondary qualities (dependent on perception).
Q: How does Barkley address the denial of physical objects?
A: Barkley denies the existence of physical objects independent of perception, arguing instead that everything we perceive is created and sustained by God.
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