How can we tell the difference between a dream and reality? Dreams often feel like reality while we are having them. When we wake up, though, we know immediately that we just experienced a dream. Therefore, we know the definition of a dream, so the main question, then, is WHAT IS REALITY?
We could say that reality is our perception of the world around us, involving the senses, especially that of touch or feeling. For example, the laptop on which I am writing this blog is a part of reality. I can see and feel the screen and keyboard as I type these words. However, everyone has their own perception or idea of reality. What is a reality for me may not be a reality for the man living across the street. Specifically, I have a Political Science test in class on Thursday, which is, for me, a reality. My neighbor, who is retired, does not have to take that test, but instead chooses to spend his day reading The Davinci Code. The way he spends his day is his reality.
The idea of including the sense of touch or feeling in the definition of reality poses a few problems for me. There are abstract things in our world that are a part of reality which cannot be touched. Time, the Internet, words, images displayed through the television, friendship, happiness, and love are all examples of abstract realities. We think we know these things exist, but are they actually part of reality? Many of these abstract ideas are absolutely a part of my reality. My question for you is, based on your perception of reality, are they a part of yours?
