Archimedean point


An Archimedean point is a hypothetical standpoint from which an observer can objectively perceive the subject of inquiry with a view of totality ; or a reliable starting point from which one may reason. In other words, a view from an Archimedean point describes the ideal of "removing oneself" from the object of study so that one can see it in relation to all other things while remaining independent of them.
For example, the philosopher John Rawls uses the heuristic device of the original position in an attempt to remove the particular biases of individual agents in order to demonstrate how rational beings might arrive at an objective formulation of justice.

Origins

The term refers to the great mathematician Archimedes, who supposedly claimed that he could lift the Earth off its foundation if he were given a place to stand, one solid point, and a long enough lever.
The idea for the term is attributed to Descartes in his second Meditation, who refers to Archimedes requiring only "a point that was firm and immovable," with regard to finding certainty:
Archimedes, that he might transport the entire globe from the place it occupied to another, demanded only a point that was firm and immovable; so, also, I shall be entitled to entertain the highest expectations, if I am fortunate enough to discover only one thing that is certain and indubitable.

Criticism

and anti-realist philosophers criticise the possibility of an Archimedean point, claiming it is a form of scientism. For example, according to Michael Shermer: "We can no more separate our theories and concepts from our data and percepts than we can find a true Archimedean point—a god’s-eye view—of ourselves and our world."