Subjective experience refers to personal perceptions and interpretations of the world. Subjective truth can be seen as beliefs or claims that are influenced by individual perspectives, emotions, and interpretations.
Objective experience pertains to observations and measurements that can be independently verified and validated by a multitude of observers. Objective scientific truths reflect claims that are supported by empirical evidence and rigorous scientific investigation. Scientific realists advocate for the existence of an objective reality that can be understood and described through systematic observation, measurement, and experimentation.
Objective truth from this perspective are truths that can withstand scrutiny and verification by different observers, contributing to our collective understanding of the external world, however, in positing a static and immutable external reality, this perspective begs us to accept reality and truth as both a priori and transcendent of human experience.
When philosophers speak of subjective truth they are referring to a felt experience. We know this felt experience of truthiness or trust exists, we do not know, however, that objective truth corresponds to an objective reality that is ultimately "meant" to be perceived in one particular way or "unwilling" to allow for novel interpretations. From the perspective of dogmatic scientific realism, objective experience encompasses observations and measurements that are rigidly detached from individual perspectives and interpretations. This perspective posits a singular, monolithic objective reality that exists independently of any human observation or experience. Objective truths within this framework are viewed as unyielding, universal principles that hold true regardless of personal viewpoints or cultural contexts.
Dogmatic scientific realists firmly reject the notion of a perspectival or pluralistic universe. They assert that there is one objective reality that is immune to the influence of personal biases, cultural factors, or individual experiences. From their standpoint, claims about this reality can be grounded solely in empirical evidence, objective measurements, and systematic experimentation, demoting subjective interpretation to a passive role in experience, denying the transactional account of experience and reality, and completely ignoring the observer effect in quantum mechanics. The observer effect suggests that the act of observation can influence the behavior of subatomic particles. This has led to discussions about the role of consciousness and observation in shaping reality at the quantum level.
Some scholars have drawn connections between John Dewey's transactional view of experience and reality and such implications of quantum mechanics. They suggest that both perspectives highlight the participatory nature of knowledge and reality. Just as Dewey emphasized the role of the observer's engagement in shaping experience, quantum mechanics propose that observation is not passive but can have an active role in determining outcomes.
This rejection of a perspectival or pluralistic universe reflects the dogmatic nature of scientific realism. It asserts an unwavering belief in a singular objective reality that is discoverable through a standardized scientific method. This dogmatism emphasizes the idea that objective truths are definitive and immutable, standing apart from subjective interpretations and embracing a singular, universally applicable reality.
Therefore, those who take the pragmatic approach and champion the primacy of felt truth approximation are more realistic and less theoretical than the so called scientific realists who posit an objective standard of truth that may not exist, may not be achievable, and even if we did achieve it we would not necessarily know we've achieved it. In this way, pragmatism is the more realistic and least dogmatic perspective. A pragmatic interpretation of the concept of objective truth could consider that subjective truth is felt and personal, while objective truth is distinguished as truths that are expected to hold universally, independent of individual perspectives. In this view, subjective truth would be relative to an individual's experiences and beliefs, while objective truth would merely apply consistently across different observers.
The pragmatic approach values the practicality and usefulness of beliefs and truths in guiding actions and decisions. From this perspective, objective truths are merely those that have a broader applicability, leading to more reliable and consistent outcomes when utilized in various contexts.
From the pragmatist perspective, it's essential to note that even within the realm of objective truths, some beliefs may be subject to refinement or revision as our understanding of the world evolves through scientific inquiry and empirical evidence. The pragmatic perspective acknowledges that while we may strive for objective or universally applicable truths, our knowledge is always subject to improvement and adjustment based on new information and discoveries. This willingness to adapt our understanding in the face of new evidence is a hallmark of pragmatic thinking.
From a pragmatic perspective, there is nothing inherently transcendent or a priori about objective truth. Instead, objective truth, like other concepts, is shaped by human experiences and understanding. However, what sets it apart is the expectation of universality – the belief that objective truths apply consistently and universally, independent of individual perspectives.
In other words, objective truth is not seen as an absolute or transcendent reality that exists independently of human experiences. Rather, it is a concept that emerges from our attempts to generalize and find consistent patterns in the world. These generalizations, supported by empirical evidence and rigorous testing, are considered objective truths because they are expected to hold true across various contexts and for different observers.
While objective truths may carry a higher degree of reliability due to their universal applicability, they are not immune to revision or refinement when new evidence or insights emerge. Pragmatism emphasizes the importance of being open to updating our beliefs and understanding in response to new information, even regarding what we may consider objective truths.
Intersubjective truths are truths that exist based on a consensus or agreement among multiple individuals or observers. While they are not purely subjective truths that depend solely on an individual's perspective, they also lack the broader universality associated with objective truths.
Intersubjective truths emerge from shared experiences, interpretations, and communication between individuals, leading to a convergence of viewpoints. They are more robust than purely subjective truths but are still contingent on the agreement of multiple but limited perspectives.
Categorizing a truth universally can be more challenging because it requires a level of certainty and consistency that surpasses individual perspectives and cultural variations. Objective truths, which aim for universality, demand rigorous validation through empirical evidence and logical reasoning. As our understanding of the world evolves and new discoveries are made, some beliefs previously considered objective truths may need to be revised.
On the other hand, intersubjective truths play a crucial role in daily life, especially in social interactions, communication, and the formation of shared beliefs and values. Intersubjective truths are the building blocks of collective knowledge and culture. They allow individuals to find common ground, foster understanding, and cooperate effectively. Many aspects of our daily life, such as language, social norms, and ethical values, rely on intersubjective truths.
Intersubjective truths also facilitate communication and empathy. When people recognize and appreciate the perspectives and experiences of others, they can form stronger social connections and build trust. This shared understanding of intersubjective truths helps create a sense of belonging and community.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that intersubjective truths can be influenced by biases, cultural norms, and individual experiences. While they provide a valuable framework for social cohesion, they may not necessarily align with objective reality. This is why, in certain contexts, such as scientific research and critical decision-making, it is vital to distinguish between intersubjective truths, which are socially constructed, and objective truths, which are based on empirical evidence and logical analysis.
While subjective truth is solely based on an individual's felt experience, intersubjective truth goes beyond individual experiences and involves the assumption that others may share similar felt experiences of truthiness. This assumption introduces an element of uncertainty and risk, as it relies on the trustworthiness and genuineness of others' experiences.
Intersubjective truths can be influenced by social dynamics, cultural norms, and the reliability of communication between individuals. This introduces the potential for deceit, deception, or misunderstandings, as not everyone may have the same intentions or experiences. The element of risk arises from the possibility that our assumptions about shared experiences may not always align with reality.
In some cases, people might intentionally deceive others to shape or manipulate intersubjective truths for their own benefit. This manipulation of shared beliefs and perspectives can have significant consequences, affecting social cohesion, decision-making, and trust within communities.
However, despite these risks and uncertainties, intersubjective truths also play a vital role in creating shared understanding and a sense of community. They form the basis of cultural norms, traditions, and common values that bind societies together. Moreover, the process of questioning and critically examining intersubjective truths can lead to a deeper exploration of the underlying beliefs and cultural assumptions.
In navigating intersubjective truths, it is essential to remain open to critical thinking, diverse perspectives, and the potential for deception. Emphasizing transparency, empathy, and effective communication can help mitigate some of the risks associated with intersubjective truths and foster a more honest and cohesive society. Recognizing the distinction between intersubjective and objective truths can also guide us in seeking empirical evidence and reliable data when making important decisions or evaluating complex issues.
Ultimately, the above considerations highlight the uses and limitations of supposedly objective or universally applicable truths and champions the primacy of intersubjective truths in navigating everyday life. Intersubjective truths allow us to bridge the gap between purely relativistic subjectivism and wholly dogmatic scientific realism.
Produced by Clint Warren - Aided by ChatGPT
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