Object-Oriented Ontology: A New Theory of Everything

Reality is not just what we perceive, but also how we interact with objects. Object-Oriented Ontology rejects the idea of human specialness, stating that objects are mutually autonomous and can exist independently of human perception.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2018
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Reality, a complex and multifaceted concept, has long been a subject of philosophical inquiry. Humans often assert their superiority over non-human objects, viewing them as mere extensions of our perception. This belief is deeply ingrained in modern philosophy, which emphasizes our unique status as special beings, distinct in kind from all other objects. However, Graham Harman, a prominent proponent of Object-Oriented Ontology, challenges this notion of human exceptionalism. In his book, "Object-Oriented Ontology: A New Theory of Everything," Harman argues that the world we perceive is not the world as it truly exists. He asserts that objects, regardless of their nature (real, fictional, natural, artificial, human, or non-human), are mutually autonomous and exist on their own terms.

Object-Oriented Ontology offers a profound reimagining of our understanding of the world. It challenges the notion that reality is solely shaped by human perception and suggests that objects have their own intrinsic properties and characteristics. This philosophy encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from art and literature to politics and natural science. Harman explores how Object-Oriented Ontology can be applied to these fields, shedding light on the ways in which our perception of the world influences our understanding and interpretation of it.

One of the central ideas of Object-Oriented Ontology is the concept of autonomy. Harman argues that objects are not subordinate to human consciousness or intention but exist independently of our perception. This means that objects have their own agency and can act on their own terms, regardless of our involvement. This concept challenges the traditional view of the world as a construct created by human minds.

Object-Oriented Ontology also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all objects. Harman argues that objects are not separate entities but are part of a larger interconnected network. This network includes not only physical objects but also abstract concepts, ideas, and social structures. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all objects, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world and the relationships between different phenomena.

In conclusion, Object-Oriented Ontology offers a revolutionary perspective on reality. It challenges the notion of human exceptionalism and emphasizes the mutual autonomy and interconnectedness of all objects. By adopting this philosophy, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and the relationships between different phenomena. Object-Oriented Ontology provides a framework for rethinking our understanding of the world and for exploring new possibilities for understanding and interpreting the universe.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 113 x 180 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241269152