written: 08-06-1996
solipsism (n) - A theory that the self can know nothing but its own modifications and states that the self is the only existent thing. - from Webster's Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary
I have written this document to explain why I refuse to debate or have a discussion with anyone who uses a solipsistic argument. I refuse discussion on this subject because, from the solipsist's point of view, I don't exist, so no argument I make matters. Solipsism is non-falsifiable. There is nothing I can say and no evidence I can bring that the solipsist can't counter simply by pointing out that, by his or her lights, I and my evidence are simply constructs of his or her own mind. Any attempt at argument is rendered pointless by the very nature of solipsism itself.
I operate via a rational, scientific world view and accept the anti-solipsistic base assumptions of science. Those assumptions are:
1)The universe possesses the property of objective existence. This means that all the people and things I see around me are actually there. If I die, everything else will continue on just fine without me. In other words, if a tree falls in the woods, and no one is there to hear it, it makes a noise anyway.
2)Our senses provide us with reasonably accurate data on the aforementioned objectively existent universe. In other words, the world we see is generally as we see it, and not just an illusion covering an entirely different reality.
If you choose to reject these assumptions and accept solipsism or a similar philosophy then all I can say is: have fun, knock yourself out, but don't try to argue the point with me. This particular figment of your imagination has better things to do with its pseudo-existence.
On the other hand, if you accept the above two assumptions, even if you don't accept much of the rest of what science tells us about the universe, then at least we have a basis for discussion, a starting point if you will. If I disagree with you, I can bring forth my evidence and, even if you don't find it persuasive, at least you won't deny it exists.
In closing, let me state that I am not saying here that I have any objection to philosophical discussion or that I limit myself strictly to hard science. I am open to discussions on existentialism or pragmatism or just about any other philosophical school of thought anyone wishes to discuss. It is mainly solipsism that I have no patience with.
Yours In Objective Reality,
Jay The Obscure