Merleau-Ponty
Purpose and Procedure in Philosophy of Perception June 10, 2021 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780198853534.003.0013
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA methodology is a theory of method that justifies which methods should be used to investigate a topic and why. Merleau-Ponty, a phenomenologist known for his analyses of perception, worked within a tradition rather than a unified movement, where figures inherit and develop particular themes and ideas. Phenomenology claims a distinct method, but different phenomenologists interpret it variously. This chapter explains Merleau-Ponty's understanding of the phenomenological method and how he applies it in his study of perception.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Merleau-Ponty's phenomenological method is applied in his study of perception, though his interpretation of the method differs from other phenomenologists. |
Abstract
Abstract A methodology is a theory of method. In asking for a methodology, one wants to know which method(s) we should use for investigating some topic, and why. Merleau-Ponty is a phenomenologist who is famous for his analyses of perception. Phenomenology is not a unified movement—it’s more like a tradition, where figures are linked by historical lineages: the inheritance and taking up of particular themes and ideas. Whilst it explicitly bills itself as having a distinct method, different phenomenologists interpret it in various ways. This chapter explains how Merleau-Ponty understands the phenomenological method, and how he applies it in his study of perception.