Mysteries for Humans: Navigating the Maze of Science, Objectivity and our Mental Limits

Abstract

My project explored the idea that science, often upheld as the epitome of objectivity, may instead resemble a maze of our own creation. Drawing inspiration from Penelope Scott’s ‘Mysteries for Rats’ and Chomsky’s concept of ‘mysteries-for-humans’, the work considers how social structures, institutions and scientific practices can form problems we are unable to conclusively solve. The exhibit’s structure deliberately avoids resolution, echoing both intellectual dead ends encountered during philosophical discussion and the recursive loops of institutionalised science. Ultimately the goal is not to provide answers but to provoke curiosity, encourage openness and prompt reflection on the limitations of human knowledge. Engaging openly with other disciplines may allow us to examine a question more fully and utilise these unique perspectives to form creative solutions.