Ernst Mach: 'If our dreams were more regular, more connected, more stable, they would also have more practical importance for us.'

If our dreams were more regular, more connected, more stable, they would also have more practical importance for us.

Ernst Mach, a prominent philosopher and physicist of the late 19th century, once stated, "If our dreams were more regular, more connected, more stable, they would also have more practical importance for us." At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing, but beneath the surface, it holds a profound meaning. In a straightforward interpretation, Mach suggests that if our dreams were more consistent and coherent, they could hold greater significance in our waking lives. He implies that dreams, as they currently are, lack the practical relevance that could potentially enrich our existence. However, delving deeper into this notion, we can introduce the parallel philosophy of Surrealism, which offers an unexpected and captivating perspective on the role of dreams in our lives.Surrealism, a 20th-century artistic and philosophical movement, encourages embracing the power of the subconscious mind and celebrating unconventional imagery. Surrealists believe that dreams have immense creative and emotional potential. They argue that by allowing our dreams to roam freely, unburdened by rational constraints, we can tap into a realm that transcends the mundane and unlocks new levels of inspiration.Contrasting Mach's perspective with Surrealism, we find an intriguing dichotomy. Mach's assertion assumes that dreams, to be of practical significance, must conform to a more structured and logical narrative. On the other hand, Surrealism posits that dreams hold immense value precisely because they defy rationality and allow us to explore uncharted territories of imagination.Considering Mach's viewpoint, there is merit in desiring more regular, connected, and stable dreams. If our dreams followed a coherent story arc, they might offer insights into our deepest desires or unresolved conflicts. We might gain a semblance of control over our dreams, allowing us to actively engage with unconscious thoughts and emotions, ultimately facilitating personal growth and self-discovery. Moreover, if our dreams were more stable and reliable, we could potentially harness their guidance to navigate waking life more confidently.On the contrary, Surrealism argues that the irregularity and disjointed nature of dreams serve a vital purpose. The surrealists maintain that breaking free from conventional thought patterns and exploring the strange and metaphoric in dreams can unlock new perspectives and creative ideas. Dreams that defy logical coherence are seen as treasures, opening doors to a realm beyond the ordinary, where inspiration and innovation flourish.While Mach's perspective underscores the notion of harnessing dreams for practical applications, Surrealism invites us to dive headfirst into the bizarre and chaotic nature of the dream world. Rather than seeking a linear connection to reality, Surrealism embraces the unexpected and abstract, allowing dreams to act as a wellspring of creativity and artistic expression.In summary, Mach's quote explores the idea that if our dreams were more regular and stable, they would hold greater practical importance for us. However, the philosophy of Surrealism challenges this notion by asserting the value of dreams lies precisely in their irregularity, disconnection, and lack of stability. These differing perspectives invite us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of dreams and the potential they hold – both as practical tools and as gateways to the imagination. As we navigate the vast landscape of our dreams, somewhere between Mach's longing for coherence and Surrealism's celebration of the nonsensical, we may uncover profound truths and unearth the hidden depths of our own subconscious minds.