This quote by Nelson Goodman encapsulates the philosophical idea that our understanding of reality is shaped by the interpretations and representations we create. Goodman, a prominent philosopher, emphasized the role of narrative and perspective in shaping our experience of the world.
The phrase "We make versions" suggests that the way we perceive and articulate our experiences is not fixed. Each person constructs their own version of reality based on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual beliefs. This notion highlights the subjective nature of knowledge; two people can experience the same event yet interpret it in completely different ways.
The reference to "true versions" implies that among these myriad interpretations, some hold more significance or accuracy than others. True versions resonate with a deeper understanding and align more closely with objective truths or universal human experiences. These authentic representations have the power to profoundly affect our understanding and engagement with the world around us.
The concluding notion that "true versions make worlds" suggests that our constructs—when authentically and accurately expressed—have the ability to shape realities. This idea aligns with the concept that literature, art, and philosophy can create new perspectives and possibilities. When people adopt or connect with a true version, they enter a new worldview, expanding their understanding of existence itself.
In summary, Goodman’s quote invites us to reflect on the narratives we create and their influence on our perceptions and realities. The versions we construct not only shape our individual experiences but also contribute to a collective understanding of the world.
“My title “The Fabrication of Facts,” has the virtue not only of indicating pretty clearly what I am going to discuss but also of irritating those fundamentalists who know very well that facts are found not madder, that facts constitute the one and only real world, and that knowledge consists of believing the facts. These articles of faith so firmly possess most of us, they so bind and blind us, that “fabrication of fact” has a paradoxical sound. “Fabrication” has become a synonym for “falsehood” or “fiction” as contrasted with “truth” or “fact.” Of course, we must distinguish falsehood and fiction from truth and fact; but we cannot, I am sure, do it on ground that fiction is fabricated and fact found. - 91”
“We aim at simplicity and hope for truth.”
“I have never been especially impressed by the heroics of people convinced they are about to change the world. I am more awed by those who struggle to make one small difference.”
“ Make it right.”
“I really do think that if for one week in the United States we saw the true face of war, we saw people's limbs sheared off, we saw kids blown apart, for one week, war would be eradicated. Instead, what we see in the U.S. media is the video war game. ”
“It then becomes necessary to stop short and make a choice: Either/Or. Either one drifts with their absurd system of ideas, believing that this is the human community. Or one dissents totally from their system of ideas and stands as a lonely human being. (But luckily one notices that the others are in the same crisis and making the same choices.)”