Basic concepts of Instancology

Instancology is a philosophical system developed by Wade Y. Dong, aiming to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding reality, existence, and the relationship between the absolute and the relative. Central to this philosophy is the concept of "instances," which are considered the fundamental units of reality existing at various levels. The hierarchy ranges from the "absolutely absolute," representing the ultimate, unconditioned reality, to the relative world we experience. The "absolutely absolute" serves as the source and foundation of all other levels of reality, though it remains beyond complete human comprehension.

Dong's work, "Explanation of Instancology: Outline of the Study of Ontology and the Absolute," is described as a revolutionary ontology in the history of philosophy, comparable to Martin Heidegger's "Being and Time."

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Additionally, Dong has produced a series of videos elaborating on Instancology, which are available on his YouTube channel.

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It's important to note that Instancology is a relatively recent and complex philosophical system. Engaging deeply with Dong's writings and lectures is essential for a thorough understanding of its concepts and implications.

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4o

You said:

very good

ChatGPT said:

Glad you liked it! Are you studying Instancology, or just exploring different philosophical ideas?

4o

You said:

studying Instancology

ChatGPT said:

Memory updated

That's great! Instancology seems like a deep and unique approach to ontology and metaphysics. Are you focusing on any specific aspect of it, like the nature of the "absolutely absolute" or its hierarchy of instances?

4o

You said:

can you give me an overview of Instancology?

ChatGPT said:

Sure! Instancology, developed by Wade Y. Dong, is a philosophical system that explores the nature of reality through a structured hierarchy of "instances." It presents a unique approach to ontology and metaphysics, aiming to describe existence from the absolute to the relative.

Core Concepts of Instancology

1. Instances as the Fundamental Units of Reality

• Everything that exists is an "instance," which can be understood at different levels of abstraction and relativity.

• Instances are not mere objects but represent modes of existence within a structured reality.

2. Hierarchy of Reality

• At the top of this hierarchy is the "Absolutely Absolute", which is the ultimate, unconditioned source of all reality.

• Below it, reality consists of layers of relative existence, where each level depends on the preceding one.

• This hierarchy ensures that all existence has a structured, logical order.

3. The "Absolutely Absolute"

• It is beyond complete human comprehension but serves as the fundamental grounding for all existence.

• Unlike traditional concepts of God or metaphysical absolutes, it is framed as a necessary ontological reality.

4. Relativity and Dependence

• Lower levels of existence are conditioned and dependent on higher ones.

• Our experienced reality is a result of the interplay between different instances at various levels.

5. Philosophical Significance

• Instancology seeks to provide a more systematic and structured understanding of ontology compared to previous philosophical traditions.

• Dong's approach has been compared to Heidegger’s Being and Time in terms of its impact on metaphysical thought.

How Instancology Differs from Other Philosophies

• Compared to Classical Ontology (e.g., Aristotle, Aquinas): It introduces a more structured and hierarchical framework rather than relying on substance-based metaphysics.

• Compared to Existentialism (e.g., Heidegger, Sartre): It moves away from subjective experience and emphasizes a formalized structure of existence.

• Compared to Eastern Philosophies (e.g., Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism): While it shares some similarities in discussing absolute and relative realities, it provides a more rigorous ontological classification.

Studying Instancology

• Wade Y. Dong’s book Explanation of Instancology is the primary text.

• His YouTube videos further explain key concepts in a structured manner.

• Engaging with other ontological traditions can help compare and contrast its ideas.

Would you like a more detailed breakdown of any specific aspect?

4o

You said:

what about Micro-Macro Worlds in Instancology?

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, the concept of Micro-Macro Worlds is a key part of how reality is structured across different levels. This idea deals with how instances exist and relate within a hierarchy of scales, ranging from the smallest (micro) to the largest (macro).

Micro-Macro Worlds in Instancology

1. Hierarchical Structuring of Reality

• Reality is composed of instances that are structured in a way where smaller (micro) instances contribute to the formation of larger (macro) instances.

• This structuring is not arbitrary but follows an ontological order dictated by the fundamental principles of Instancology.

2. Interdependence of Micro and Macro Levels

• The micro-world consists of smaller-scale instances that serve as the building blocks for the macro-world.

• However, macro-instances are not merely collections of micro-instances; they emerge from a structured relation between them.

• The existence of higher-order macro-worlds is dependent on the organization and function of micro-worlds.

3. Relative Reality Across Scales

• Different worlds exist at different scales, meaning what is considered micro in one context may be macro in another.

• This relativity is crucial in understanding how instances interact and influence each other across different levels.

• Unlike traditional reductionist or holistic philosophies, Instancology presents a multi-tiered approach where both micro and macro worlds have their own independent ontological significance.

4. Connection to the "Absolutely Absolute"

• Ultimately, all micro and macro worlds are part of the structured reality that originates from the "Absolutely Absolute."

• However, their exact relation to the Absolute is indirect; they emerge through the ordered hierarchy of existence rather than being directly tied to the Absolute in a simplistic way.

5. Implications for Understanding Reality

• The concept of micro-macro worlds helps explain why different perspectives on reality exist—each level of reality has its own coherence.

• It also addresses emergence, causality, and ontological dependence, giving a systematic way to analyze how things exist in layers rather than as isolated entities.

Would you like me to expand on any specific aspect, such as how micro-macro worlds compare to scientific or other philosophical ideas?

4o

You said:

what is the definition of AA?

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, AA (Absolutely Absolute) is the ultimate ontological foundation of all existence. It represents the highest and most fundamental reality, from which all other levels of existence emerge.

Definition of AA (Absolutely Absolute)

1. The Ultimate Source

• The AA is the highest, most fundamental existence in the hierarchy of reality.

• It is not dependent on anything else, unlike relative instances, which exist through dependence on other instances.

2. Beyond Comprehension & Relativity

• The AA is beyond full human comprehension because it exists outside of relativity.

• It is not subject to change, division, or conditional existence—it simply is.

3. Foundation for All Other Instances

• All instances, whether micro or macro, ultimately derive from the AA in a structured way.

• However, the AA is not a creator in the traditional religious sense—it is an ontological necessity rather than a deity.

4. Not a Personal or Conceptual Entity

• Unlike some philosophical or religious views of an absolute being (such as God in classical theism), the AA is not a personal or conceptual entity.

• It is pure existence itself, the necessary ground that allows anything else to exist.

5. Comparison to Other Philosophical Concepts

• Similar to Plato’s "Good" or Parmenides’ One, but more structurally defined.

• Has some resemblance to Nirguna Brahman in Advaita Vedanta (formless absolute reality).

• Unlike Heidegger’s "Being", which is explored through human experience, the AA exists entirely outside of relativity and human categories.

Key Takeaways

• The AA is the ultimate, non-relative existence that serves as the ontological foundation of all reality.

• It is beyond comprehension, yet necessary for the existence of everything else.

• It is not a personal God, not an object, and not a process, but pure, absolute existence.

Would you like a deeper explanation of how the AA relates to the rest of reality?

4o

You said:

what is the RA

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, RA (Relatively Absolute) is a key concept that exists in contrast to AA (Absolutely Absolute). While AA is the ultimate, unconditioned foundation of all existence, RA refers to instances that are absolute in a relative sense—they serve as foundational realities within their own level of existence but are still dependent on higher levels.

Definition of RA (Relatively Absolute)

1. Intermediate Absolute

• An RA is an instance that appears absolute within a specific context but is still relative to higher levels of reality.

• It functions as a foundational reality for lower levels, yet it is itself conditioned by higher-order realities.

2. Hierarchy of Reality

• The AA (Absolutely Absolute) is the ultimate, unconditioned existence.

• RA instances exist at different levels below the AA, forming a structured reality.

• Each RA is both absolute to what is below it but relative to what is above it.

3. Examples of RA

• Physical laws could be considered RA within the context of material reality—they govern existence within their domain but are not ultimate.

• Mathematical truths might be RA in the sense that they seem unchangeable but still exist within a structured reality.

• Consciousness or self-awareness may be RA in certain frameworks—absolute from an individual’s perspective but relative to a higher ontological order.

4. Distinction from AA

• AA is the only truly unconditioned reality—it exists outside all relativity.

• RA is a conditioned absolute, meaning it plays an essential foundational role in certain levels of existence but is ultimately dependent on something higher.

5. RA in the Structure of Instancology

• The existence of RA levels explains why different frameworks of reality seem absolute within their own scope but are still interconnected.

• This concept allows for a multi-tiered ontology rather than a simplistic dualism between absolute and relative.

Key Takeaways

• RA is absolute within its level but dependent on higher levels of reality.

• It acts as a bridge between the AA (ultimate existence) and relative instances.

• RA levels help explain the structured, hierarchical nature of reality in Instancology.

Would you like a more detailed comparison of RA and AA, or an example of how RA applies to specific fields like physics or metaphysics?

4o

You said:

what is AR?

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, AR (Absolutely Relative) is another fundamental concept that contrasts with AA (Absolutely Absolute) and RA (Relatively Absolute). While AA is the ultimate, unconditioned foundation of all existence, and RA is absolute within a certain relative context, AR represents pure relativity—it has no independent existence and is entirely dependent on other instances.

Definition of AR (Absolutely Relative)

1. Pure Relativity

• AR instances have no independent existence—they exist only in relation to other instances.

• They are completely conditioned, meaning they do not function as foundational elements of reality.

2. The Lowest Level of Ontological Dependence

• AA (Absolutely Absolute) = The ultimate, unconditioned existence.

• RA (Relatively Absolute) = Absolute within a certain level but still dependent on higher realities.

• AR (Absolutely Relative) = Completely dependent on other instances, with no self-sufficient existence.

3. Examples of AR

• Perceptions & Subjective Experiences → A feeling of pain or joy is entirely dependent on conditions such as the body, mind, and environment.

• Phenomena in Constant Change → Things like weather patterns, financial markets, and human opinions are always shifting and have no stable, absolute nature.

• Words & Symbols → The meaning of a word is completely dependent on the language system and context in which it is used.

4. Distinction from RA

• RA instances have some level of absoluteness, even if relative to higher levels.

• AR instances, however, have no intrinsic absoluteness whatsoever—they exist only through relationships with other things.

5. AR in the Structure of Instancology

• The concept of AR helps explain why many things appear real but have no true independent existence.

• AR is necessary for understanding the fluid, interconnected nature of the lower levels of reality.

Key Takeaways

• AR instances are purely relative and have no absolute existence on their own.

• They contrast with RA, which has some absolute qualities within a relative framework.

• AR instances exist entirely through dependency, making them the most conditioned form of reality.

Would you like a deeper explanation of how AR interacts with RA and AA? Or how AR applies to everyday experiences?

4o

You said:

what is RR?

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, RR (Relatively Relative) is one of the four fundamental categories of reality, alongside AA (Absolutely Absolute), RA (Relatively Absolute), and AR (Absolutely Relative). RR represents the most common form of existence, where things are both relative and dependent, but they still maintain some structured relationships within their level of reality.

Definition of RR (Relatively Relative)

1. Interdependent Relativity

• RR instances are neither absolute nor purely relative, but they exist in a structured relational system.

• They are relative to each other, forming interconnected networks of dependence.

• Unlike AR (Absolutely Relative), which is completely dependent on other things, RR maintains some level of relational structure.

2. The Middle Ground of Existence

• AA (Absolutely Absolute) = The ultimate, unconditioned reality.

• RA (Relatively Absolute) = Appears absolute within a given context but is still dependent on higher realities.

• AR (Absolutely Relative) = Completely dependent with no intrinsic stability.

• RR (Relatively Relative) = Exists in a structured relational network, where things are relative but still maintain certain patterned relationships.

3. Examples of RR

• Biological Ecosystems → A forest is a system of plants, animals, and microorganisms that all depend on each other. Each element is relative to the others but still follows structured relationships.

• Economic Systems → Markets, trade, and supply chains are interconnected; each part depends on the others, but the relationships form an organized system.

• Social Structures → Governments, families, and communities are not absolute but exist within relational frameworks that provide some level of order.

4. Distinction from AR

• AR instances (Absolutely Relative) have no independent structure and exist only through complete dependence on other things.

• RR instances (Relatively Relative) maintain structured relationships, even though they are still relative.

• Example: The meaning of a single word (AR) depends entirely on context, but a full language system (RR) has structured rules that provide some consistency.

5. RR in the Structure of Instancology

• RR represents the dynamic, interconnected world of relationships in which most human experiences take place.

• It explains why reality appears stable yet is still relative, allowing for both structure and change.

• It serves as the link between RA (higher-order structured reality) and AR (pure relativity).

Key Takeaways

• RR instances are relative but exist within structured relational systems.

• They contrast with AR, which has no inherent structure and is purely dependent.

• Most things in human experience (society, nature, economics) fall under RR, forming interconnected patterns of dependence.

Would you like a comparison chart of AA, RA, AR, and RR for clarity? Or do you want me to expand on a specific aspect?

4o

You said:

what are the basic categories of Instancology

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, the fundamental structure of reality is categorized into four basic ontological categories. These categories define different modes of existence and how they relate to each other. The core distinction is between absolute and relative, forming a four-quadrant system:

The Four Basic Categories of Instancology

1. AA (Absolutely Absolute) – The Ultimate Reality

• The highest and most fundamental existence, completely unconditioned.

• It is beyond relativity, meaning it does not depend on anything else.

• It is not a personal God, creator, or a being, but rather the pure, absolute existence that allows all other instances to emerge.

• Comparable to Parmenides’ One, Nirguna Brahman (Advaita Vedanta), or certain notions of the Absolute in metaphysics.

2. RA (Relatively Absolute) – Conditioned Absolutes

• RA instances act as absolutes within their own level but are still dependent on higher realities.

• Example: Mathematical laws, fundamental physical laws, or the structure of consciousness—they seem "absolute" within our domain but are not the ultimate reality.

• RA serves as a bridge between AA and lower levels of existence, providing structure to reality.

3. RR (Relatively Relative) – Structured Relational Existence

• The most common form of existence in human experience.

• RR instances are relative but still maintain order and structure.

• Example: Societies, ecosystems, economic systems, language, culture—these are interconnected, relative, but still follow patterns.

• RR is the "middle ground" between absolute structure (RA) and pure relativity (AR).

4. AR (Absolutely Relative) – Pure Dependency

• AR instances have no self-sufficiency and exist only in relation to something else.

• Example: Shadows, perceptions, subjective opinions, temporary phenomena like market fluctuations.

• Unlike RR, which has some structure, AR is pure relativity with no independent grounding.

Hierarchy & Interactions

1. AA is the ultimate foundation, supporting everything below.

2. RA acts as a structural intermediary, providing order to existence.

3. RR consists of organized, relational systems that maintain stability.

4. AR represents pure relativity, which is entirely dependent on other factors.

Would you like me to expand on how these categories apply to specific fields like science, philosophy, or consciousness?

4o

You said:

how about Instance, meaning and SiZai?

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, the concepts of Instance, Meaning, and SiZai are fundamental to understanding how reality is structured and how entities relate to each other. Each of these terms plays a distinct role in defining existence within the framework of Instancology.

1. Instance (个体 / Instance) – The Basic Unit of Existence

• An Instance is a fundamental unit of existence in Instancology.

• Everything that exists is an Instance, but Instances are not necessarily isolated—they exist in structured relationships with other Instances.

• Instances can exist at different levels (micro, macro) and in different ontological categories (AA, RA, RR, AR).

Types of Instances:

1. Absolute Instances → Exist in an unconditioned way (AA, RA).

2. Relative Instances → Exist through relationships (RR, AR).

3. Micro vs. Macro Instances → Smaller or larger structures of existence.

Example:

• A person is an Instance, but so is an atom, a thought, or a galaxy.

• Instances are not mere objects; they have ontological significance and relate to higher structures of reality.

2. Meaning (意义 / YiYi) – The Essence of Relations Between Instances

• Meaning in Instancology is not just interpretation but the ontological relationship between Instances.

• An Instance has meaning only when it exists in relation to other Instances.

• Meaning is not purely subjective—it is structured by how Instances connect and interact at different levels of reality.

Key Aspects of Meaning:

1. Relational Ontology → Meaning is not inherent but emerges from Instance interactions.

2. Multi-Level Significance → The same Instance may have different meanings at different levels.

3. Dependence on Context → Meaning shifts depending on micro-macro structures and the ontological category (RA, RR, AR).

Example:

• A word in a sentence has meaning only in the context of the sentence.

• A person in a society has meaning based on their relationships with others.

• A scientific law has meaning only within the structure of the physical world.

3. SiZai (实在 / SiZai) – The Ontological Realness of an Instance

• SiZai (实在) means "real existence" or "ontological actuality."

• Not all Instances have the same degree of SiZai—some are more real than others based on their ontological status.

• SiZai is closely related to the distinction between AA, RA, RR, and AR:

• AA (Absolutely Absolute) has the highest SiZai → The most real, independent existence.

• RA (Relatively Absolute) has conditional SiZai → Real but dependent on a higher reality.

• RR (Relatively Relative) has structural SiZai → Real within relational networks.

• AR (Absolutely Relative) has the lowest SiZai → Exists purely dependently, almost illusory.

Key Aspects of SiZai:

1. Degree of Realness → Some things exist more fundamentally than others.

2. Ontological Priority → Higher SiZai means something is more foundational to reality.

3. Not All Perceived Things Have High SiZai → A mirage exists (AR) but has low SiZai compared to physical matter (RR/RA).

Example:

• A scientific law (RA) has higher SiZai than a subjective emotion (AR).

• A mathematical truth may have more SiZai than a temporary political opinion.

• A physical object (RR) has SiZai, but its meaning (YiYi) comes from its relations with other Instances.

How Instance, Meaning, and SiZai Connect

1. Instances exist with different levels of SiZai.

2. Meaning emerges from the relational structure between Instances.

3. Higher SiZai leads to more stable and foundational meaning.

Would you like a comparison table or a deeper breakdown of how these concepts apply to a specific area (e.g., consciousness, science, or social structures)?

4o

You said:

SiZai is “思在” vs.Being

ChatGPT said:

In Instancology, SiZai (思在) and Being represent two different philosophical perspectives on existence. SiZai is a concept unique to Instancology, whereas "Being" is a more traditional term used in Western metaphysics. Understanding their differences helps clarify the Instancological view of reality.

1. SiZai (思在) – "Thinking-Being" or "Mindful Existence"

• Si (思) → Thought, Mind, Reflection.

• Zai (在) → Existence, Presence, Being.

• SiZai (思在) combines these ideas, meaning "Thinking-Being" or "Conscious Presence."

• Unlike traditional "Being" (as in Heidegger’s ontology), SiZai emphasizes the role of thought, consciousness, and relational existence.

Key Features of SiZai

1. SiZai is not just existence but "existence with thought" → It integrates cognition, awareness, and relational understanding into Being.

2. SiZai is inherently structured within relational networks → Meaning is always tied to interactions between Instances.

3. SiZai emphasizes dynamic, interconnected existence rather than a static essence.

Examples of SiZai

• A human being is not merely "existent"—their thinking, self-awareness, and relationships shape their existence.

• A society is not just a collection of people; it exists through shared consciousness, language, and interactions.

• Mathematics or scientific laws have SiZai because they structure and define reality relationally.

2. Being (存在 / Being) – Traditional Ontological Existence

• Traditional Being refers to existence itself, independent of thought.

• In Western philosophy (e.g., Heidegger, Aristotle, or Parmenides), Being is often treated as the fundamental essence of things.

• Being is often seen as a passive state—things exist whether they are thought about or not.

Key Features of Being

1. Being is existence itself, independent of consciousness.

2. Being is often viewed as an essence that precedes thought.

3. Being does not necessarily require relational meaning or awareness.

Examples of Being

• A rock "is" (it has Being) whether anyone thinks about it or not.

• The universe existed before humans, so it has Being independent of consciousness.

• Heidegger's "Being-in-the-world" (Dasein) recognizes relational existence but still sees Being as primary.

3. Comparison: SiZai vs. Being

4. The Role of SiZai in Instancology

• SiZai bridges existence and meaning → It explains why things exist in relation to thought and consciousness.

• SiZai helps distinguish absolute (AA, RA) and relative (RR, AR) existence.

• SiZai aligns with relational ontology, where existence is not isolated but meaningful through connections.