[MD] Distinguishing Levels

[Steve Peterson]

Hi Arlo,


> I agree that "true-false" is a misguided way to
> categorize intellectual
> patterns. Pirsig had something to say about this...
> 
> "Unlike sub-ject-object metaphysics the Metaphysics
> of Quality does not insist
> on a single exclusive truth. If subjects and objects
> are held to be the
> ultimate reality then we're permitted only one
> construction of things-that
> which corresponds to the "objective" world-and all
> other constructions are
> unreal. But if Quality or excellence is seen as the
> ultimate reality then it
> becomes possible for more than one set of truths to
> exist. Then one doesn't
> seek the absolute "Truth." One seeks instead the
> highest quality intellectual
> explanation of things with the knowledge that if the
> past is any guide to the
> future this explanation must be taken provisionally;
> as useful until something
> better comes along. One can then examine
> intellectual realities the same way he
> examines paintings in an art gallery, not with an
> effort to find out which one
> is the "real" painting, but simply to enjoy and keep
> those that are of value.

I like that quote too, but I don't see how you could
take it to mean that we can no longer talk about
whether something is true or false. You can still have
truth even after you leave "Truth" behind.

Truth is that which is good to believe. My point is
that we don't believe or disbelieve social patterns,
we only do that with intellectual patterns.

Steve



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