Question

In the context of John Locke's distinction between ‘qualities' and 'ideas', which among the following assertions is INCORRECT?

• A. Our ideas are exact images of something in the bodies that cause them
• B. The powers to produce ideas in us are called 'Qualities'
• C. 'Primary qualities' are perceptible by more than one sense
• D. Qualities perceptible only by a single sense are 'secondary qualities'

Hint:

For Locke's philosophy, distinguish between primary and secondary qualities and their relation to perception.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

According to John Locke:
1. Primary qualities (e.g., size, shape) are directly perceivable and exist in objects.
2. Secondary qualities (e.g., color, taste) depend on perception and exist subjectively in the observer.
3. The powers in objects that produce ideas in us are termed qualities (Option B).
4. Primary qualities are perceptible by multiple senses (Option C), while secondary qualities rely on a single sense (Option D).
Option (A) is incorrect because Locke states that our ideas are not exact images of external objects; they represent how objects affect our senses.