Reification (fallacy) - Theory

Theory

Reification often takes place when natural or social processes are misunderstood and/or simplified; for example when human creations are described as "facts of nature, results of cosmic laws, or manifestations of divine will". Reification can also occur when a word with a normal usage is given an invalid usage, with mental constructs or concepts referred to as live beings.

When human-like qualities are attributed as well, it is a special case of reification, known as pathetic fallacy (or anthropomorphic fallacy).

Nature provides empathy that we may have insight into the mind of others.

Reification may derive from an inborn tendency to simplify experience by assuming constancy as much as possible.

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