The Tacit Dimension

A distinguished scientist-philosopher outlines a new theory of mind. He uncovers the mechanism of an essential process of thinking that he calls "tacit knowing", offering as its paradigm the recognition of moods on a human face: few could say what facial configurations make up, for example, a puzzled expression, but we can all recognize puzzlement. This knowledge of particulars that we cannot itemize, and to which we attend only for their meaning in some other sphere, is "tacit knowledge". Tacing knowing guides the scientist to problems promising new discoveries. Hunches and intuitions essential to all creative thought are examples of tacit knowledge emerging into full consciousness. In a similar way do new organic forms emerge, by the process of evolution, from the possibilities contained by simpler forms of life. The author explores the moral and political implications of his theory, which he shows to be incompatible with both positivism and Marxism -- in that they deny the autonomy of thought -- and with existentialism, which demands that man shape himself by his own absolute choice. Rejecting all these doctrines as mental self-destruction, he concludes by staking out a "society of explorers" founded in harmony with man's true powers. [Back cover].