The Uncanny As A Tool

Uncovering Ideas At The Edge Of Familiarity

The uncanny is a versatile concept. From previous studies done by psychologists and philosophers, the uncanny is described as a feeling that is familiar yet strange. For me, the uncanny is more than just an instant psychological experience. It is a tool that arouses questions and curiosity to stimulate further explorations. At the same time, it is also an answer to the unknown: to intangible things or moments that are hard to explain. The uncanny plays an important role during the process of understanding. It renews the way people learn about the world and themselves again and again.