The Role of Imagination in Learning, Understanding, and Knowledge

Philosophers across various traditions and areas of research have long debated the epistemic roles of imagination. While imagination is often associated with creative thinking and the discovery of possible or fantastical worlds, the question remains: does imagination enhance our understanding of the actual world and help us acquire knowledge?

This workshop brings together experts across various fields—phenomenology, philosophy of language, and philosophy of mind—to examine the diverse epistemic roles of imagination. By exploring how imagination can be a source of learning, deepen understanding, and contribute to knowledge formation, we aim to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and uncover new insights into this essential cognitive process.