Creating a Lunar Philosophy: Research Project & Experiments

  • Thread starter raolduke
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Philosophy
In summary: There is no "lunar philosophy."In summary, the conversation discusses the idea of creating a research project on lunar philosophy, specifically documenting the effects of the full moon on humans. However, there are concerns raised about the scientific validity of this project and the definition of philosophy. The conversation also touches on the potential impact of the moon on tides and neurological activity, but ultimately concludes that there is no such thing as a "lunar philosophy."
  • #1
raolduke
156
0
I am guessing - that there is some sort of lunar philosophy?
I was hoping on creating a research project similar or finding out about this idea. I was thinking, for the rest of my life I could document each full moon I experience in as much detail as possible.. Besides recording my conscious self I want to try dream interpretation on those occassions too.

I know there is a bit to consider before attempting this experiment and much information to learn about.. So if there is anyone with some criticism or knowledge about this subject please elaborate.

It would also be very awesome if we got a few that want to help.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Lunar Philosophy

What makes you think that the full moon has any effect on people (other than making them spend hours setting up large telescopes in extremely cold temperatures just so they can examine the moon at close quarters)? Most stories associated with changes in humans during the full moon are just supersticious. Also, making notes on the effects of the full moon for the rest of your life would be quite a lot of work.
 
  • #3
If you restrict your observations to full moons only then you will have nothing to compare these observations against. Plus, whatever you may do and experience on these days will be influenced by the fact that you are busily documenting all that, plus the fact that you are aware of this fact.

To know if there is anything significant enough about full moon days to create your philosophy, you need to compare them to non-full-moon days. You should also do a blind test, i.e. you should not know which day is a full moon and which day is not, otherwise once again your actions and perceptions will be influenced by your knowledge of this fact and its perceived importance.
 
  • #4
The reason why I bring this up is because I was out on a night in the middle of the woods and I felt very strange and it turns out it was a full moon. The control is a good idea definately.. Same as all experiments. Is there any truth to lore about the moon - lunatics, were wolves, that sort of stuff?
 
  • #5
There are many theologies which look at the moon as a factor in our lives. However, I'm confused as to how this has any bearing on philosophy. A system of beliefs is not philosophy, inasmuch as astrology is not science. Perhaps one of the better definitions I've read is that philosophy is "[t]he methodical and systematic exploration of what we know, how we know it, and why it is important that we know it."

Not to undermine your lunar endeavors, just a bit of food for thought on what philosophy is and is not.
 
  • #6
raolduke said:
I am guessing - that there is some sort of lunar philosophy?
I was hoping on creating a research project similar or finding out about this idea. I was thinking, for the rest of my life I could document each full moon I experience in as much detail as possible.. Besides recording my conscious self I want to try dream interpretation on those occassions too.

I know there is a bit to consider before attempting this experiment and much information to learn about.. So if there is anyone with some criticism or knowledge about this subject please elaborate.

It would also be very awesome if we got a few that want to help.

The fact that the moon tends to either coincide with or actually effect the tides is significant in itself. It would have been a driving force in collecting seafood at one time and of course in navigation and sailing.

Comparing neurological activity during a full moon and a new moon will be a good control as Out Of Whack has offered. My guess is that we as evolving organisms have always been affected by the moon in terms of how its effects change the ocean, seeing as how most life on Earth has arisen from the ocean. So, if there is a lunar philosophy it will be rooted in the primordial experiences we had as slime mould or fish when our oceanic tides began to shift and when they didn't. Or not.
 
  • #7
<link deleted>
experiments relating lunar activity to psychic cognition (ESP, Telekinesis, all that junk)
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #8
Sorry, everyone, but this just doesn't have anything to do with philosophy. This is folklore, at best.
 

FAQ: Creating a Lunar Philosophy: Research Project & Experiments

What is the purpose of creating a lunar philosophy research project?

The purpose of creating a lunar philosophy research project is to explore the potential for developing a unique philosophy that is inspired by the moon and its influence on human culture, society, and psychology. This project aims to deepen our understanding of the moon and its impact on our lives, and to potentially uncover new insights and perspectives on various philosophical concepts.

How will the research project be conducted?

The research project will be conducted through a combination of theoretical and experimental approaches. This may involve studying existing philosophical theories and texts related to the moon, conducting surveys and interviews with individuals who have a strong connection to the moon, and designing and executing experiments that explore the psychological and cultural effects of the moon.

What kind of experiments will be conducted?

The experiments will vary depending on the specific research questions being explored. Some potential experiments could involve conducting psychological tests on individuals under different lunar phases, observing the effects of lunar rituals and traditions on individuals or communities, and analyzing the impact of lunar cycles on decision making and behavior.

What potential benefits could come from this research project?

This research project could potentially lead to a deeper understanding of the role of the moon in human culture and psychology. It could also provide new perspectives and insights on philosophical concepts such as time, identity, and spirituality. Additionally, this research could have practical applications in fields such as psychology, anthropology, and cultural studies.

What are the potential challenges of conducting this research project?

Some potential challenges of conducting this research project could include finding a diverse range of participants and ensuring the ethical treatment of human subjects. Additionally, given the speculative nature of lunar philosophy, there may be limited existing research and resources to draw upon. It will also be important to consider and address any biases or limitations in the research design and methodology.

Similar threads

Philosophy of Science: Discussing Maths, Physics, Mind, & AI
Replies
3
Views
2K
How the Philosophy of Art made me want to become a Physicist
Replies
4
Views
408
Philosophy and Physics-physics needs philosophy?
Replies
2
Views
3K
I Measure of existence? (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy)
Replies
7
Views
1K
What Are the Challenges of Creating a Perpetual Motion Machine?
Replies
2
Views
359
Focus all of your ire on me, if you would
Replies
4
Views
1K
Philosophy Playing Cards Design: Looking for Feedback
Replies
15
Views
6K
Engineering Pursuing Research in Engineering Versus Hobby Projects
Replies
3
Views
2K
Appeal for the realization of an astronomic observatory on the moon
Replies
4
Views
3K
Programs REU Opportunities for International Students in Theoretical Physics
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top