Non-Objects in the Ontology of EFOS: Typology, Status, and Relational Nature
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This article presents a systematic description of non-objects – entities that do not fit into the simple distinction of "objects vs subjects" within the ontology of EFOS (Entity That Forming Objects and Subjects). Non-objects are defined as entities that, at a given moment (for a given observer at a given level of description G), do not satisfy at least one of five criteria of objectivity: stable boundary, localization, measurability, preservation of identity, and absence of reflexive influence on the observer. A typology is developed distinguishing two types of non-objects: (1) non-object-subjects – entities possessing subjective properties (perspective, activity, meaning-making) but lacking stable objective form (e.g., culture, civilization, collective subjects, subject at extreme G values); (2) absolute non-objects – entities that are neither objects nor subjects (e.g., Apeiron, EFOS as a source beyond all projections, the generative level in projective ontologies). The relational nature of categories is demonstrated: the classification of an entity as object, subject, or non-object depends on the observer and the choice of G. Non-objects cannot be known directly but can be studied indirectly through their influence on objects and subjects. A testing program is proposed through indirect markers (I_PA, K_G for objects; I_ARD, η_info for subjects) with specific numerical thresholds. A comparison is made with alternative approaches: ancient Apeiron, Laycock's non-objects, Mamardashvili's non-objectifiability, quantum superpositions, and Axelkrans's generative level, showing the uniqueness of the EFOS model in combining typology, relational ontology, and a concrete source of projections. The article concludes with open questions and an invitation to collaboration. Keywords: non-objects, object, subject, projection, EFOS, relational ontology, G, typology, Apeiron.
Language: English
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204055322
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