NOUMENAL Meaning and
Definition
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Noumenal, originating from the German word "das Noumenon," refers to a concept imbued with philosophical significance. In metaphysics, "noumenal" is a term used to describe things or phenomena that exist independently of human perception, cognition, or subjective experience. It pertains to the Kantian notion of a supersensible reality that lies beyond human comprehension or any sensory interpretation. Derived from Immanuel Kant's distinction of the noumenal and phenomenal realms, the noumenal represents the unknowable essence or true nature of an object or phenomenon, which is beyond what can be observed or understood through sensory experience.
The noumenal realm exists beyond the boundaries of our perceptual abilities and is shrouded in the realm of pure reason. It encompasses concepts such as the existence of the soul, God, moral truths, and other metaphysical entities that cannot be directly perceived or understood through empirical means. Unlike the phenomenal realm, which encompasses the physical and observable world, the noumenal realm is inaccessible and operates according to its own laws and principles.
The noumenal realm also carries connotations of transcendence, representing a realm of existence that extends beyond our sensory limitations, giving rise to questions about the ultimate nature of reality. While the noumenal realm cannot be directly accessed or comprehended by humans, it remains a central focus of philosophical inquiry and contemplation, providing a framework to explore the limits of human knowledge and understanding.
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Intellectually, not sensuously, intuitional; relating to the object of pure thought divorced from all concepts of time orspace.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NOUMENAL
Etymology of NOUMENAL
The word "noumenal" is derived from the German term "noumenon", which was coined by the philosopher Immanuel Kant in the late 18th century. Kant used the term to describe things as they are in themselves, beyond our perception and understanding. Noumenon is derived from the Greek word "nooumenon", which means "that which is being thought of" or "that which is grasped by the mind". In Kant's philosophy, the noumenal realm is contrasted with the phenomenal realm, which refers to things as they appear to us through our senses. The adjective form of noumenon, "noumenal", retains this meaning of referring to the realm of things independent of our perception.
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