Non sequitur

Definition

A non sequitur is a statement or conclusion that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement. It highlights a disconnect in reasoning, often creating absurd or humorous effects, which can be particularly useful in artistic expressions that seek to challenge conventional thinking and reveal the underlying workings of the unconscious mind.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non sequiturs can be used to create surrealist art, where unexpected combinations challenge viewers' perceptions and provoke deeper contemplation.
2. In literature and poetry, non sequiturs can disrupt narrative flow, emphasizing the randomness and chaos of human thought and experience.
3. The use of non sequiturs can evoke humor or absurdity, making audiences question their own expectations of logic and coherence.
4. Many Dada artists employed non sequitur as a way to criticize societal norms and reject traditional artistic values, embracing randomness and spontaneity.
5. Psychologically, non sequiturs can be seen as reflections of the unconscious mind, revealing thoughts and associations that are not typically expressed in rational discourse.

Review Questions

• How does the use of non sequitur in surrealist art contribute to our understanding of the unconscious mind?
  • Non sequitur in surrealist art serves to disrupt conventional thought patterns, allowing viewers to engage with their own unconscious processes. By presenting unexpected juxtapositions or illogical sequences, artists invite audiences to explore deeper meanings that may not be immediately apparent. This aligns with the surrealist goal of accessing the unconscious mind, emphasizing the complexity and richness of human thought beyond logical reasoning.
• Discuss the role of non sequitur in Dada art as a form of social critique.
  • In Dada art, non sequitur was employed as a tool for social critique by challenging established norms and conventions in both art and society. By introducing absurdities and illogical connections, Dadaists sought to expose the irrationality of war and consumer culture, prompting audiences to question accepted truths. The randomness inherent in non sequitur reflected their rejection of traditional artistic values, advocating for spontaneity and freedom of expression.
• Evaluate the psychological implications of non sequiturs in literature regarding human cognition and consciousness.
  • Non sequiturs in literature provide valuable insights into human cognition by illustrating how thoughts may not always follow a logical path. They reveal the complexity of consciousness, where associations can be fragmented or disjointed. This representation aligns with psychological theories about the unconscious mind's role in shaping behavior and perception. Ultimately, using non sequiturs invites readers to reflect on their own thought processes, highlighting how they navigate meaning in a world filled with chaos and ambiguity.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that emphasizes the inherent meaninglessness of life and often presents irrational or illogical narratives.

Surrealism: An artistic movement that sought to unleash the creative potential of the unconscious mind, often employing bizarre juxtapositions and non sequiturs to provoke thought and challenge reality.

Logic: The study of valid reasoning and argument structure, often contrasted with non sequitur as it requires that conclusions logically follow from premises.