Gestalt Switch, Illusion and Epistemic Switch

Abstract

I pose the question whether perceptual beliefs remain perceptual after
inferential re-interpretations. I consider three types of seeing-as. First, the
Gestalt switch which is in accordance with phenomena. Secondly, a corrected
illusory belief, the paradigm of the epistemic switch which is against
phenomena. Thirdly, Sellars’ examples of the epistemic switch which involve
principles of inference of various syntheticity. I conclude that much depends on
whether the principles violate the phenomenal or ontological identity of
perceived objects.