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Dexter theory

The Dexter theory, developed by philosopher R.G. Collingwood, suggests that human understanding of the world is shaped by our mental activities—specifically, our imagination and reasoning—rather than direct observation alone. It emphasizes that we interpret events and ideas through an active process of thinking, connecting past experiences and conceptual knowledge to grasp meaning. In essence, the theory highlights the role of the mind’s interpretive faculties in making sense of our environment, emphasizing that understanding is a dynamic process rooted in human cognition rather than passive reception of facts.