The Problems of Philosophy · Chapter
II: The Existence of Matter explained
Russell examines whether physical objects exist independently of our sense-data.
What happens
Russell examines whether physical objects exist independently of our sense-data. He begins by affirming the certainty of immediate experiences (sense-data) and introduces Descartes' method of systematic doubt. While we cannot logically prove the existence of matter, instinctive belief in an external world is natural and useful for systematizing our experiences. Russell concludes that such belief is reasonable, as it harmonizes with other instinctive beliefs and simplifies our account of reality.
Themes in this chapter
The Existence of Matter
Central theme: Russell questions whether physical objects exist independently of our sense-data and argues for a rational belief in their existence.
Appearance vs. Reality
Explored through the distinction between sense-data (appearances) and the physical object (reality), using the table as a key example.
Knowledge and Certainty
Discusses the primitive certainty of immediate experiences versus the uncertainty of the external world, and the role of instinctive beliefs.
Characters to notice
- Descartes
Introduced as the founder of modern philosophy; his method of systematic doubt and the cogito argument are discussed as a starting point for certainty.
Key passages
“Thus it is our particular thoughts and feelings that have primitive certainty. And this applies to dreams and hallucinations as well as to normal perceptions: when we dream or see a ghost, we certainly do have the sensations we think we have, but for various reasons it is held that no physical object corresponds to these sensations.”
Our immediate mental experiences—thoughts and feelings—are the most certain things we know, even in dreams or hallucinations, where we still have the sensations but no corresponding physical object.
Establishes the foundational certainty of sense-data, regardless of whether they represent reality.
“Descartes (1596–1650), the founder of modern philosophy, invented a method which may still be used with profit—the method of systematic doubt. He determined that he would believe nothing which he did not see quite clearly and distinctly to be true.”
Descartes created a method of doubting everything that could be doubted, only accepting what was clearly and distinctly true, which remains useful for philosophy.
Introduces Descartes' systematic doubt as a tool for philosophical inquiry.
“We may therefore admit—though with a slight doubt derived from dreams—that the external world does really exist, and is not wholly dependent for its existence upon our continuing to perceive it.”
Despite a lingering doubt from the possibility of dreaming, we can accept that the external world exists independently of our perception.
Russell's tentative conclusion in favor of the independent existence of matter.