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"The Analysis of Sensations- Anti metaphysical"
In Mach's article "The Analysis of Sensations" he starts the advancement of the concept that knowledge is primarily derived from sensations. Proposing that any phenomena that are under investigation through science can only be understood or interpreted through "sensations" or experiences that are present during the observation of said phenomena. Due to this, the position is that statements made in natural science are not admissible unless they can be empirically verified. -
"Some Questions of Psycho-Physics"
Ernst Mach’s “some Questions of Psycho-Physics” is critical of the subjective approach to studying our perception and brings a more objective approach to measuring physical stimuli and sensations. Within this, he introduces psychophysical law which describes the relationship between physical stimuli and sensations. -
"Facts and Mental Symbols"
“Facts and Mental Symbols” argues that our knowledge is based on direct observation of facts and mental symbols. Mental symbols are tools to organize and understand facts. He puts stress on empirical observation and experiments as well as criticizes as well as speculation on metaphysical concepts. -
"On Physiological, as Distinguished from Geometrical Space"
The primary focus of this work is to distinguish the difference between our perception of space based on sensory input or experience as well as the abstract concept of space. Mach believed that our perception of space is defined by our physiological experience of the world around us and that our experience is how we derive our world. -
"Uber den Relativen Bildungswert der Philologischen und der Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaften Unterrichtsfacher"
Translation: On the Relative Educational Value of Philological and Mathematical-Natural Sciences Subjects In this article Mach compares the value of philological education as well as mathematical natural sciences subjects. He argues that these subjects are more valuable due to how they cultivate logical thinking and scientific reasoning. He believes that the traditional education approach is lacking compared to developing critical thinking skills. -
"The Guiding Principles of my Scientific Theory of Knowledge and Its Reception by My Contemporaries"
In this essay, Mach covers his approach to epistemology and the difficulties he encountered in gaining acceptance for his proposed ideas. Believing that empirical observation is greater than metaphysical speculation. His essay highlights the importance of maintaining an open mind to new ideas and progress within science to be directed by empirical evidence. -
"DIe Organisierung der Intelligenz"
Translation: The Organization of Intelligence
Mach discusses in this work the nature of intelligence and how it should be organized. Emphasizing intelligence being a product of innate abilities and one’s environmental factors. Experience and education are key to the development of intelligence. He also brings to light some of the issues with traditional testing of intelligence and level of intelligence such as testing problem-solving skills. -
"Selbstbiographie"
Translation: Autobiography In one of Mach’s last published works, he features himself as the topic of reflection. In his autobiography, he reflects on his accomplishments and the impact of his life and career. He covers his background such as upbringing, education, and professional achievements. Ranging from his work in physics, psychology, and philosophy. This autobiography provides great insight into his personal and intellectual development. -
"Psychic and Organic Life"
Exploring the relationship between physical and mental phenomena is the main topic of this body of work. Within it, Mach argues that a close relationship can be found between them. Mach also refutes the approaches to the mind-body problem at that time and suggests that we develop a more empirical approach that allows us to understand the physical basis of mental phenomena.