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Single Idea 24484

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / E. Direct Knowledge / 2. Intuition]

Full Idea

Whenever a philosophical theory seems intuitive to us, it is primarily because it is based on metaphors that are deeply embedded in our cognitive unconscious and are widely shared within a culture.

Gist of Idea

Theories seem intuitive because they are based on metaphors embedded in a culture

Source

G Lakoff / M Johnson (Philosophy in the Flesh [1999], 24)

A Reaction

I think they overemphasise the role of metaphor (rather than mere connections), but there is obviously some truth here. But when I assess my intuitions about a theory I assess the world, as well as my internal inclinations.

Book Reference

Lakoff,G/Johnson,M: 'Philosophy in the Flesh' [Basic Books 1999], p.541