Filosofía Fundamental, Tomo II

A philosophical treatise written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the nature of sensations, examining their significance in relation to perception and existence. Balmes explores how sensations are experienced internally and how they may not necessarily correspond to external realities, laying the groundwork for discussions about the nature of knowledge and existence. The opening portion of the text begins by defining sensation as a mere internal experience and differentiating between the act of sensing and the judgment about the external world that accompanies it. Balmes presents examples, such as the perception of two identical frames, to illustrate that sensations can occur without a direct connection to external objects, which raises questions about the reliability of our senses. Furthermore, he argues that while animals perceive sensations, their understanding is limited, indicating a distinction between sensory experiences and true intelligence. Overall, the beginning of the book sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how sensations relate to knowledge, reality, and the distinctions between various forms of awareness.