Kant's Transcendental Schematism of the Understanding

Kant's Transcendental Schematism of the Understanding Public Deposited

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Filcheva, Krasimira Dimitrova
- Affiliation: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Philosophy

Abstract

In the Schematism chapter in the Critique of Pure Reason, Kant introduces a key element in his analysis of experience - the transcendental schema that mediates the application of the categories to phenomenal objects. In this paper, I seek to develop an interpretation of the doctrine of the schematism with a view to solving three significant problems that arise for that part of the critical system. I show the systematic unity of Kant's various descriptions of the nature of the transcendental schemata and their connection to the preceding deductions, thereby dispelling a possible charge of obscurity. I demonstrate how Kant's doctrine can withstand criticism about the apparent lack of justification of his schemata. Finally, I argue that a close study of the original grounds on which Kant introduces the transcendental schematism can remove the threat of regress generated by the demand for homogeneity, which opens this chapter in the Critique.

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