This simple little question can be variously viewed as an example of rampant impertinence, or a simple query regarding ontogeny. Philosophically, "what is real" demands some further information.
As I see it, it requires the stipulation of a frame of reference: real as opposed to what?
(1) Real, as opposed to imaginary;
(2) Real, as opposed to ideal;
(3) Real, as opposed to imitation;
(4) Real, as opposed to nonphysical;
(5) Real, as opposed to not initially present, or acquired.
I think that a "yes" answer is ethically safe as long as the objects of the query constitute matter. Matter is definable as that which occupies space in some form and is perceptible to the senses. To my way of thinking, another cause for a "yes" answer being given is if the matter in question is freely adopted.
Plato argued that the Ideal (coming from the World of the Forms) is more genuine than the Real (coming from the World of Appearances). Reading his Analogy of the Dividing Line and Allegory of the Cave supports this notion. I think that Plato would prefer the Ideal. Therefore, Plato could philosophically justify getting breast implants (aka store-bought ta-tas).
The second sense is easily satisfied. If they are not perfect (by being compared against whoever might be cited as the gold standard here), then they are "real." For most of us, alas, ours are "real" in that sense.
The third sense: is "imitation" necessarily inferior? Try out that notion in some other realms of discourse. This sense, like ( alternative 5) may involve hair-splittings and unwarranted assumptions.
Consider the analogy of adopting a child or a pet. If I were to adopt some puppies, would they not be "really mine"? Just thinking hypothetically, shouldn't the same sort of interpretation apply if someone were to adopt some silicone- or saline-filled objects and provide them with a good home?
As I see it, it requires the stipulation of a frame of reference: real as opposed to what?
(1) Real, as opposed to imaginary;
(2) Real, as opposed to ideal;
(3) Real, as opposed to imitation;
(4) Real, as opposed to nonphysical;
(5) Real, as opposed to not initially present, or acquired.
I think that a "yes" answer is ethically safe as long as the objects of the query constitute matter. Matter is definable as that which occupies space in some form and is perceptible to the senses. To my way of thinking, another cause for a "yes" answer being given is if the matter in question is freely adopted.
Plato argued that the Ideal (coming from the World of the Forms) is more genuine than the Real (coming from the World of Appearances). Reading his Analogy of the Dividing Line and Allegory of the Cave supports this notion. I think that Plato would prefer the Ideal. Therefore, Plato could philosophically justify getting breast implants (aka store-bought ta-tas).
The second sense is easily satisfied. If they are not perfect (by being compared against whoever might be cited as the gold standard here), then they are "real." For most of us, alas, ours are "real" in that sense.
The third sense: is "imitation" necessarily inferior? Try out that notion in some other realms of discourse. This sense, like ( alternative 5) may involve hair-splittings and unwarranted assumptions.
Consider the analogy of adopting a child or a pet. If I were to adopt some puppies, would they not be "really mine"? Just thinking hypothetically, shouldn't the same sort of interpretation apply if someone were to adopt some silicone- or saline-filled objects and provide them with a good home?
14 comments:
'imaginary'
This is the definition that would require the most .... investigation.
It's always inpertinent. But your essay is a perfect response to that nosy question.
Nice ones, worth showing!
Definitely not imaginary.
Jay
That bra is to die for!!!!!
I like your logic. And two other things.
Seriously, a great post!
Seeing yours was a treat, Angelique.
Yes, there are people who are bothered when a girl upgrades her chest, but I'm not one of them. Your exercise in logic was excellent.
They are better than real.
What's your bra size?
I'm sorry, I must have missed something ... was there any text to accompany the picture?
It is a pretty bra.
The're fake, but they're hot!
I can't say whether yours are real; but yours are beautiful!
Your boyfriend must be very happy!
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