the ability to label or tag is one of the core parts of intelligence. intelligence establishes labels by recognizing similar patterns in the information acquired, using this as a basic unit to recognize and understand the world, distinguishing different and similar things, and thereby establishing cognition and reference systems to find the laws of the universe’s operation. labels are identified and named, not pre-existing. labels are the basic units of definition.
berkeley’s “esse est percipi” (to be is to be perceived) is related to labels. merely perceiving “something exists” does not constitute berkeley’s existential conditions, but “something exists, it is this or that”.
“to be is to be perceived” equals “to be is to be perceived in a certain way“.
a label is determined not only by the object being labeled, but also (possibly more so) by the cognitive methods and system of the subject applying the label. the label a gives to b contains not only information about b, but also information about a. labels are the conditions for intelligence to understand and depict the world, determining cognitive structures and worldviews. the formation of labels is a subjective cognitive activity, through which intelligence internalizes the external world as its own experience and knowledge.
labels are categorizations. they categorize and organize the infinitely complex and diverse world, enabling intelligence to understand and communicate more effectively. however, this categorization is not fixed. as cognition and understanding deepen, some labels may change, and new labels may be created.
labels are related to power and control. whoever holds the power of naming and labeling holds the power to define and explain things. this can have significant impact on society, culture, and politics. labeling a particular group may determine society’s view and treatment of them.
although labels are powerful and useful, they can also bring limitations and prejudices. they may simplify things, ignoring their diversity and complexity.
one can not refuse to be labeled, but can try not to be limited by labels. not being labeled does not represent having all possibilities, it merely represents the refusal to compromise to limitations.
