Materialist Phenomenology: A Philosophy of Perception

Bringing together phenomenology and materialism, Manuel DeLanda has created a new theory of visual perception that engages the scientific, philosophical, and mathematical fields to explore how vision shapes what matters in the 21st century.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 21 October 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
\n

International theorist Manuel DeLanda has developed a groundbreaking theory of visual perception that seamlessly integrates phenomenology and materialism, two seemingly opposing perspectives. By drawing upon scientific disciplines such as biology, ecological psychology, neuroscience, and robotics, as well as philosophical ideas about the embodied mind and mathematical frameworks like dynamic systems theory, DeLanda has created a comprehensive synthesis of how we perceive the world in the 21st century. This transdisciplinary and rigorous analysis delves into the profound ways in which vision shapes our understanding of the world, revealing the intricate interplay between our physical senses, cognitive processes, and the broader cultural and environmental contexts in which we operate.

Through his innovative approach, DeLanda challenges traditional notions of visual perception and offers a fresh perspective on the complex mechanisms that underlie our visual experiences. He argues that vision is not merely a passive reception of external stimuli but a dynamic and active process that shapes our perception of the world. By exploring the relationship between vision, perception, and action, DeLanda sheds light on how visual technologies, such as cameras, computers, and virtual reality, have transformed the way we see and interact with the world.

One of the key insights of DeLanda's theory is the notion of "object-oriented perception," which suggests that our perception of the world is not just about individual objects but about the relationships and networks that they form. He argues that vision is not just about seeing things but about understanding the processes and systems that govern the flow of information and energy in the world. This perspective aligns with recent developments in cognitive science and neuroscience, which have emphasized the importance of intersubjectivity, agency, and the role of the body in shaping our cognitive processes.

DeLanda's theory also incorporates the concept of "materialism without objects," which challenges the traditional notion of materialism as solely concerned with the physical world. He argues that the material world is not just a physical reality but a complex and dynamic system that is shaped by the interactions between different agents and processes. By exploring the relationship between matter, energy, and information, DeLanda offers a new understanding of the origins and evolution of life, as well as the potential for new forms of life to emerge in the future.

In conclusion, Manuel DeLanda's theory of visual perception is a groundbreaking and transformative work that offers a fresh perspective on the complex mechanisms that underlie our visual experiences. By integrating phenomenology, materialism, and a range of scientific and philosophical disciplines, DeLanda has created a comprehensive synthesis of how we perceive the world in the 21st century. His innovative approach challenges traditional notions of visual perception and offers valuable insights into the relationship between vision, perception, and action. Through his rigorous analysis, DeLanda sheds light on the ways in which visual technologies have transformed our understanding of the world and opens up new possibilities for the future of visual research and practice.

\n Weight: 352g\n
Dimension: 221 x 212 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781350263949\n \n