Zur Theorie der Vorstellungsproduktion (,,Grazer" Gestalttheorie I: France Weber)

Abstract

In the following discussion, we are dealing with Weber's theory of the production of presentations, as presented in his article "The Problem of the Production of Presentations". In this article, published in 1928, Weber offers an essential modification of a version of the theory of objects which had been developed by the Graz school (and was closely linked with the theory of higher-order objects). According to Weber, the production of presentations consists in a primary transition from passive to corresponding active presentations (so there is active as well as passive presentation). Weber distinguishes several types of production of presentations: psychophysical, content, act, intentional, and surrogate production, all of which can be divided into many subtypes. Most interesting in this connection is his theory of intentional presentation. In the 1928 article, Weber postulates non-intentional presentations, on which intentional presentations are based. He distinguishes four levels of intentionality: non-intentional presentation, on the lowest level, is followed by presentational intentionality, isolative, and rational intentional presentation. Weber's 1928 article is of considerable importance for an understanding of his subsequent philosophical development.