Moore’s Proposed Proof for an External World :: Philosophy Literature Essays

Moores Proposed consequence for an External World In his Proof of an External World, Moore puts forth several supported hypotheses in regards to the nature of the introduction of things outside the self. Primarily, Moore discusses hands his argument is that if he can produce two hands then it follows logically that two hands must exist. Furthermore, Moore puts forth the theory that if hands exist then this al bingle is proof of an impertinent world. In opposition to Moores opinions will be found three main arguments first that all of Moores evidence is based upon sensory input, secondly that the truth of one fact based on the truth of a nonher fact forms an epistemic Circle in this case, and finally that the evidence out forth by Moore, even if screend, does not necessarily prove the fact that he is attempting to prove. Moores Proof of an External World is based on the fact that he has two hands. Moores argument for the existence of these hands is as followsI can prove now, for instance, that two human hands exist. How? By holding up my two hands, and saying, as I make a certain gesture with the right hand, Here is one hand=, and adding, as I make a certain gesture with the left, and here is another=. And if, by doing this, I have proved ipso facto the existence of external things, you will all see that I can also do it now in numbers of other ways there is no enquire to multiply examples.1Moores evidence for the existence of hands is based entirely upon data received from the senses, yet in no way at whatsoever time does Moore even put forth any proof in support of the assumption that his senses are indeed functioning correctly and are not in fact deceiving him. Take for example the argument put forth by Descartes that reads as followsI will suppose therefore that not God, who is supremely good and the source of truth, but rather some malicious demon of the utmost power and cunning has employed all his energies in order to victimise me. I shall think that the sky, the air, the earth, colours, shapes, sounds and all external things are merely the delusions of dreams which he has devised to ensnare my judgment.