The Molyneux Problem

by Irene Kopelman

Molyneux's problem is a thought experiment in philosophy concerning immediate recovery from blindness, notably referenced by John Locke. In brief, If a man born blind can feel the differences between shapes such as spheres and cubes, could he similarly distinguish those objects by sight if given the ability to see? Irene Kopelman uses the problem as basis for her investigation into our physical experience of the world. Through various works and projects dealing with the observation and depiction of our surroundings landscapes, objects, everyday spatial contexts she recounts an exploration of the landscape of the visual with which artists must regularly engage.

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013