Symbols, illusions, and lies have something in common — they are not Q literally (Q being something in reality) but they are somehow taken, rightly or wrongly, as some mental representation of Q.
- A symbol represents Q in your mind, but your mind does not respond to it as if it’s literally Q.
- An illusion — a mirage, magic trick, or artistic depiction — might represent Q in your mind, and your mind might respond to it as if it’s literally Q when your mind should not.
- A successful lie represents Q in your mind when it should not, and the liar would have it that your mind respond to it as if it’s literally Q.
