Do we hear compression waves

Bibliographic Data

ID21335673
AuthorsCalvin K W Kwok (0000-0001-6495-4135, University of Hong Kong, corresponding author)
Year2024
Volume67
Issue9
Pages3140-3168
Publication date2024-10-20
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueInquiry (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0020-174X • E-ISSN: 1502-3923
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/0020174x.2021.2021109
OpenAlexW4200472504
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited18

The spatial misrepresentation objection (SMO) against the wave theory of sound argues that if sounds are compression waves, then our auditory experiences are massively illusory for not representing sounds as propagating in the medium. Thus, it claims that the wave theory should be rejected because it is unreasonable to accept such an error theory of hearing. This paper presents a metaphysics of compression waves to show that the wave theory correctly implies that we cannot hear sounds as propagating. Moreover, I argue that the SMO is based on a mischaracterisation of the phenomenology of auditory experiences. A new conception of auditory perception is then proposed to explain how a sound source and its compression wave are both represented in the same auditory experience. Finally, I compare my view with some alternative theories of sound. Overall, it is found that the SMO is more of an objection against the traditional conception of hearing than a challenge to the wave theory of sound

Acoustics · Epistemology · Misrepresentation · Perception · Phenomenology (philosophy) · Physics · Sound (geography) · Sound wave · Aesthetic Perception and Analysis · Computer Science · Multisensory perception and integration · Philosophy · Philosophy and Theoretical Science · Psychology

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