Are calculators and TV remotes also concepts?

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The discussion centers on the definition of "concept" and whether tangible items, like calculators and TV remotes, can be classified as concepts. It is argued that concepts are intangible ideas that help rationalize observations, such as centripetal acceleration and torque, while specific instances of these concepts, like a cup falling, are not conceptual but rather real events. The conversation references Plato's notion of ideals and suggests that the term "concept" should be understood through various definitions. A humorous test proposed by Samuel Johnson is mentioned, indicating that if something can cause physical pain when kicked, it is not a concept. The dialogue concludes with an acknowledgment of the clarity gained from this exploration of the topic.
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Centripetal acceleration is a concept. Can we say calculators,t.v. remotes are also concepts.

OR only the intangible things are concepts (such as torque, centripetal acceleration)
 
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I would say, with caution, yes. We are not privy to 'reality', only observations. We create concepts to rationalize our observations. In this sense, observations are the only 'thing' that's not a concept.
 
The idea of a "t.v. remote" (what Plato would have called an "ideal") is a concept. A specific t.v. remote in your hand or sitting beside you is not.
 
HallsofIvy said:
The idea of a "t.v. remote" (what Plato would have called an "ideal") is a concept. A specific t.v. remote in your hand or sitting beside you is not.
I just dropped a cup. That instance of centripetal acceleration was not conceptual. Correct?
 
cs23, I suggest you start with looking up the meaning of the word "concept" in the dictionary. Do not be satisfied with just one dictionary...check severarl different ones to get a good idea of the meaning of "concept". Then you can decide for yourself if something fits the definition or not.
 
zoobyshoe said:
I just dropped a cup. That instance of centripetal acceleration was not conceptual. Correct?

No. We use the word to refer to the event itself, even though it references a concept that is not necessarily the event; we just take for granted that it is. So one can study centripetal acceleration as a concept, but you can also actually experience it as a real event.
 
How do i know if something is a concept?
 
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