Declaration of Qualia Fundamentalism

Ken Mogi

AXIS Vol. 109, pp.158-159 (June, 2004) 

 The value of a work of art is determined by the quality of sensation,
 or "Qualia" which are felt when you see it in front of you.
It cannot be verbalized
It cannot be symbolized
It cannot be marketed easily.

 Surprisingly, even a work of literature, which is the art of words, 
is determined by the quality of Qualia experienced, that which 
cannot be verbalized or symbolized.
 When you look back you realize that the important things in 
life are all things that cannot be verbalized.
 That ticklish feeling when you got into a swimming pool with 
your friend when you were a child. That restless feeling before 
your first date. That heavy feeling you get when you are in 
conflict with someone.
 It originates in ordinary daily living and crystallizes in the promise
 of the ultimate. When you feel like this in front of a work of art, 
you call it a masterpiece and are thankful for it. The joy of 
being alive surges through you. 
 Forget what is already on the market. Stay with your 
inner, most compelling, sweet, sad Qualia. And sublimate that 
Qualia into a pop-like style.
 I hereby declare Qualia fundamentalism.

(c) Ken Mogi 2004
http://www.qualia-manifesto.com
kenmogi@qualia-manifesto.com