how can we know that the world around us is real and what do we mean by real?
The question of whether the world around us is real is a philosophical one that has been debated for centuries. However, in practical terms, we generally consider the world to be real based on our perception and experience of it.
To understand what we mean by "real," we need to consider the concept of reality. Reality refers to the existence of things as they are, independent of our perception or interpretation. It is often associated with the physical world and the things that can be observed or measured.
One common approach to evaluating the reality of the world is through our senses. Our five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell) provide us with information about the external world. We perceive objects, events, and phenomena through these senses, which gives us a sense of the world's reality.
Another aspect to consider is the consistency of our experiences. If we consistently perceive and interact with objects and events in a similar way, it strengthens our belief in the reality of the world. For example, if we consistently see and touch a table, hear sounds, and feel emotions, it reinforces our understanding that these experiences are part of a shared reality.
Science and empirical evidence also play a significant role in validating the reality of the world. Scientific investigation involves developing theories, conducting experiments, and making observations to explain and understand the natural world. By relying on objective measurements and repeatable experiments, science provides a method to verify our understanding of reality.
However, it is important to acknowledge that our perception of reality is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as personal biases, cultural influences, and individual interpretations. Therefore, while we may consider the world to be real based on our perception and empirical evidence, it is important to remain open to the possibility of alternative perspectives and interpretations.