What can we learn from internal observers?

Dieter Gernert

pp. 121-133

in: Harald Atmanspacher, Gerhard J. Dalenoort (eds), Inside versus outside, Berlin, Springer, 1994

Abstract

Specific methodological problems arise when systems totally different from our common experience are to be explored. Examples are microphysical or astrophysical systems, but also foreign cultures. Internal observers are human researchers or technical devices that are sent into the interior of such a system in order to analyze it and to report about it later. Particular problems and characteristic errors are due to inadequate and incongruent frames of representation. These problems are discussed in detail, partly using analogies from cultural anthropology. Some consequences are derived referring to an appropriate preparation of internal observers as well as to the reception of possible findings.