Philosophical Toys

General Remarks and Considerations

"Philosophical Toys" is a term used for objects that enable us to understand processes, functions, relations and effects.
In contrast to models – that are designed for quite similar purposes, but with the focus on visualization and objectification – Philosophical Toys are more closely related to processes of active research, experiment and knowledge production. Rather than being products, they are instruments of imagination, insight and invention – or, if you want so: tools for thinking by doing, for a synthesis of theory and/as practice. And, perhaps most important: this synthesis is realized in a playful way.

As the history of science proves this may include not only Philosophical Toys as scientific toys in the tradition of a "science amusante", but also as prototypes for inventions (i.e. instruments, machines and other technological products). Moreover, Philosophical Toys can help to communicate rather complex concepts and ideas hands-on.

Now, in how far is this concept related to the TIME BENDING CLOCK?

Basically, we would like to propose to think of the TIME BENDING CLOCK as a Philosophical Toy.

Moreover, also certain [TBC Mechanisms] may aptly be considered (and constructed) as Philosophical Toys.

Last but not least, we simply have a crush on Philosophical Toys and a related research project (see: ]]Philosophical Toys / Philosophisches Spielzeug[[ project info at www.under-construction.cc ).

See also:
[Alternate Clocks]
[Alternate Time Pieces]
[TBC Mechanisms]
…

tags: clocks, clockworks, technology, time