Illumination refers to the use of light to achieve practical or aesthetic effects. It can be achieved through both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Daylighting, which involves using windows, skylights, or light shelves, is sometimes used as the main source of light during the daytime in buildings to save energy in place of using artificial lighting, which represents a major component of energy consumption in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures and is a key part of interior design. Illumination can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.
In addition to its practical uses, illumination can also refer to spiritual or intellectual enlightenment. It can also refer to decorative lighting or lighting effects. Illumination can also be a decoration of lights, usually colored lights. In the context of science, illumination is defined as the energy of light striking a surface of specific unit area per unit time. Finally, in philosophy, divine illumination is the oldest and most influential alternative to naturalism in the areas of mind and knowledge. The doctrine holds that human beings require a special divine assistance in their ordinary cognitive activities.
