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Discussion Questions
- What role does resemblance play in pictorial representation? If resemblance alone cannot explain pictorial representation what more is needed? (Relates to Crane’s ‘The Puzzle of Representation’)
Resemblance plays an essential role in pictorial representation since it presents something intrinsic to what the picture looks like. Pictures possess intrinsic features such as the shape, color, and size that build a sense of resemblance. Based on a philosophical approach, the truthfulness of a single claim often depends on the truth of another. Consequently, a pictorial representation relies on the resemblance of a picture and what it symbolizes. This role depends solely on necessary conditions. For instance, once a picture represents a certain person, it is likely that some aspects of that person resemble the picture. However, it raises an issue while determining whether a picture can represent something without resembling it. In this case, it is important to identify that loose resemblance is applicable in determining what the picture represents. This is illustrated in the resemblance theory of pictorial representation.
If resemblance is used as a basis for representation, people need to evaluate things from a different perspective. Additionally, if a person were to avert from making every pictured object a pictorial representation of its picture, it would be essential to ignore the supposition that resemblance is sufficient for pictorial representation. In this case, a necessary concept that would allow resemblance to explain pictorial representation is an interpretation. Interpretations allow people to view pictures in the way they do, attach a context and allow judgment. Additionally, people often have attitudes and opinions regarding objects and images based on their experiences. In this case, what is necessary is the context in which people are used to seeing pictures that build their interpretation. Reflecting on the familiar facts of life that are characterized by written and spoken words, symbols, and expressions reveals the puzzling nature of representation and allows people the opportunity to make judgments and interpretations.