The notion of point of view

Abstract

This chapter introduces the notion of points of view, or perspectives. First, some classical antecedents are commented. Secondly, we make explicit two general approaches in order to analyze the structure of points of view. One of them uses propositional attitudes as a model. The other one focuses on the notions of location and access. After doing that, we will analyse the peculiar nature and mode of existence of points of view. It is argued that points of view are essentially relational entities with quite a strong modal character. This will entail that they are not reducible either to subjectivity, or to information, or to current physics. A number of relevant topics are also discussed: the distinction between individual and collective points of view, the notion of personal points of view, the different senses in which points of view can be said to have conceptual and non-conceptual contents, and the notion of reflective points of view.