Reality and Representation

Reality refers to the actual state of things as they exist, independent of perception or interpretation. In contrast, representation is how we depict or express aspects of that reality—through language, art, images, or symbols. Representations can shape our understanding and can sometimes distort or simplify the complexity of reality. For instance, a map represents a city, but it cannot capture the city's vibrant life. Understanding the difference helps us critically assess information and recognize that our perceptions may not fully reflect the actual world around us.