williams@kirk.DEC (John Williams 223-3402) (08/06/85)
Michael, I think perhaps you are defining the word reality a little too loosely. This does not mean I didn't understand, ( and agree, BTW ) but I think that what you described as " reality " might be better described by a word like perspective, or perception. I, myself, find that reality tends to correct my perspectives. Many psychologists, and those under their direct influence, prefer your definition, but I believe this to be attributable to their ability to deal with it ( reality ). True, there is no absolute evidence to assert that reality exists beyond the observer, but the probability of this being true approaches certainty without limit. That is, I have yet to see an exception. I think that the probability is strong enough to deserve it's own category. In other words, I don't believe reality can be wished into, or out of, existence. I personally think that psychologists choose to use strong words to promote themselves in this manner. I think the word perspective is much more accurate for describing what alot of psychologists call reality. Maybe they just twist the words around to fit into their own particular context. Many reply with the statement that objective reality can't be proved, which it can't, but this style of thought borders on the logical extreme, and completely bypasses the probabilities which we are confined to, yet seem to work best. So, in essence, I understand what you are talking about, but I think perhaps you could describe it a little more accurately. As for the practicality of having such a word as reality, I think it best describes the external system which will correct us if we're wrong. John.