Reflection upon the lines quoted from Book 32 of the Zhuangzi proved to be a dive into the deep end of a pool of rumination on epistemology.

But those who are ignorant
rely only on what they see
and take it to be what is common
to all men.

What do I mean when I write or say that “I know”? Using such language often and informally, we have sufficient understanding to communicate. Simple enough, as long as one does not pause to ponder the detail of ‘what’s going on’ with coming to know.

A friend pointed out to me that the threadbare nostrum, “seeing is believing” ought to be reversed. It would be more accurate to express that what one believes structures, gives form to what one sees. I have to agree. We have an over abundance of evidence around us that belief gives credibility to what one “sees.”

Whether through a drumbeat exposure to Fox News or to podcast pundits belief in a political ideology will determine the meaning of events, even those seen first hand. Seeming to be different another example: believing that a strawberry causes a pleasurable sensation of taste, I am seduced by the sight of a tub of strawberry ice cream to purchase a cone of strawberry.  Such a belief derives from a long succession of experiences extending for many years into my childhood. 

One could say that the words of others, written or spoken as well as direct first hand experience provoke beliefs which serve to frame “reality” for us. A robust belief will vector, channel how I “see”, possibly whether I see anything at all. To the contrary seeing does not equate to believing. The opposite is true!

Leveraging this insight one may rely upon continued education to expand the field of one’s vision. “Vision” here may be taken in the broadest sense. A guided tour of the Louvre in company with an expert in art is likely to be unforgettable, – possibly expanding to passion for learning about art that was hitherto indecipherable. “Education” has that effect. Informed belief becomes seeing.

Yesterday we had the good fortune to be present at an Art Reception which celebrated the 30 year anniversary of Lifelong Learning Institute sponsored by Waubonsee Community College. Witnessing the art work created by the LLI members reinforced my appreciation of how art is one effective means of “showing” the spectrum of possibilities entailed within believing and seeing. The exhibit was held at the Sugar Grove Public Library. 

Here is a small sample of the work by LLI members which were on exhibit at the library.

• The Latin saying in the title of today’s post comes from Augustine of Hippo