What is Mind? Final Draft

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Exploring the Mind-Body Problem: Unraveling the Enigma of Consciousness Gia K. Kaho’ohanohano Grand Canyon University: College of Humanities and Social Sciences PHI-103: Introduction to Philosophy and Ethics Gary Osmundsen March 10, 2024 1

Exploring the Mind-Body Problem: Unraveling the Enigma of Consciousness The mind-body problem, a complex philosophical inquiry into the nature of consciousness and the relationship between mental and physical states, has intrigued philosophers for centuries, posing questions about the essence of the mind, its connection to the physical body, and the reducibility of mental states to physical ones. Through the exploration of various philosophical perspectives, including Type Identity Theory, Functionalist Physicalism, Property Dualism, and Substance Dualism, Functionalist Physicalism, is the most reliable theory due to its adaptability and compatibility with advances in neuroscience, asserting its viability as a plausible solution to the mind-body problem. The Mind-Body Problem The mind-body problem, is a complex philosophical issue, centering on the nature of consciousness and the relationship between mental and physical states. Philosophers grapple with questions such as: What is the nature of the mind? How does it relate to the physical body? Can mental states be reduced to physical states, or are they irreducible entities? These questions form the core of the mind-body problem, a puzzle that has captivated philosophers for centuries. Some may argue for a reduction approach, suggesting that mental occurrences can be ultimately elucidated through the functions of the brain and the nervous system. Others argue for a dualistic perspective, asserting that the mind and body are separate entities with distinct characteristics. Despite ongoing centuries of discussion and exploration, the mind-body problem remains unsolved, persistently challenging our comprehension of consciousness and the very essence of existence. 2

Philosophical Solutions to the Mind-Body Problem Various philosophical perspectives offer insights into how mental states relate to physical states, each posing unique challenges and advantages in understanding the complex nature of consciousness. Type Identity Theory The Type Identity Theory poses a direct correlation between mental states and specific physical states within the brain. According to this perspective, each mental event corresponds uniquely to a particular pattern of neural activity. For instance, the sensation of pain is identified with a distinct neural pattern. Despite its straightforward approach, critics argue that this theory oversimplifies the intricacies of mental phenomena and neglects the potential for multiple physical realizations of the same mental state (Penguin, 2009). Functionalist Physicalism In contrast, Functionalist Physicalism asserts that mental states should be defined by their functional roles and relationships, rather than by their specific physical properties. This viewpoint emphasizes the functions of mental states in terms of input, output, and internal states, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of consciousness. Proponents argue that this approach accommodates variations in physical realizations, but critics question whether functionalism can genuinely capture the essence of subjective experience (Tye, 1983). Property Dualism Property Dualism takes a different route by suggesting that mental and physical properties are distinct but interact. Unlike Substance Dualism, Property Dualism doesn't propose separate substances for the mind and body but acknowledges the coexistence of irreducible mental properties alongside physical properties. This perspective accommodates the subjective 3

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