"Science and Sanity," authored by Alfred Korzybski, explores the philosophy and methodology of General Semantics, which emphasizes the importance of language and meaning in human thought and interaction. Korzybski seeks to challenge conventional Aristotelian logic, arguing that our understanding of reality is significantly shaped by the words and symbols we use. This book introduces a systematic way of thinking that can improve clarity in communication and reduce misunderstandings in society.
The core premise of General Semantics is that humans often confuse their perceptions and experiences with the actual events occurring in the world. Korzybski posits that language can distort thoughts, leading to erroneous conclusions. By advocating for a non-Aristotelian approach, he encourages individuals to consider the fluid nature of meaning and to be conscious of the limitations that language imposes on understanding reality.