Perception as a Teleological Process of Cognition

Abstract

The essay offers an account of husserl's view concerning the teleology of cognitive processes. this is accomplished by a close analysis of the earlier works, in particular, with special attention to the theory of perception. especially, the notions of 'appearance', 'representation', 'synthesis of fulfillment' and 'constitution' are critically examined. it is shown how the goal of coincidence between the appearance and the thing-in-itself, and (as later formulated) the "kantian idea" of an infinite progress of cognition, function as the basic rule governing the process of perceptive cognition. in conclusion, it is stated that these views are not intelligible without considering husserl's ethical concerns.