A Theory of Sense‐Data
Analytic Philosophy February 11, 2026 Andrew Y. Lee
A sense-datum theory of perception is developed and defended. Perceptual experiences involve acquaintance with sense-data, which are private particulars that have all the properties they appear to have, are common to perception and hallucination, constitute phenomenal character, and are analogous to internal pictures. The theory diverges from classic versions in three ways: sense-data are neural states presented first-personally; their sensational qualities differ from the sensible qualities of external objects; and sense-data are the vehicles of perception, not the objects perceived. This package is argued to be a viable contemporary position in philosophy of perception.