In these times of consultations and questionnaires, we are constantly asked to reflect on our responses to things. Our basic mode of understanding is self-referential. Such epistemology, if that is the right word, is inculcated by authorities established to form patterns of public perception.
A seasoned primary-school teacher told me of a formation seminar she recently attended. A scenario was proposed: a group of children on a walk in the woods. One comes along with a pinecone, asking, “Miss, what’s this?” What do you say? The instruction was clear. No facts; no reply. Instead, an enquiring look and a question: “My dear, what is it to you?”
