In philosophy, we typically think of rational arguments as being the preeminent means of reasoning and of communication. But it would be a mistake to ignore other modes of understanding (just as it would be a mistake to ignore the connection between emotion and moral action). Artistic, visual representation can help us “see” what the rational mind otherwise can’t picture.

Artist Chris Jordan creates representations of consumption. They’re beautiful pictures, but in addition to that, they are thought-provoking. Here’s that link again: http://www.chrisjordan.com/. Click through and browse through the “Running the Numbers” exhibits–you’ll be glad you did because these images are amazing. I wish I had time in class to show this 10-minute video in which he discusses his work: http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/08072009/watch3.html (yes, there’s a transcript on that page, too).

The TED talk in the post below provides less insight into the development of Jordan’s work but makes up for it in the number of provocative images.

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