Site • RSS • Apple PodcastsDescription (podcaster-provided):
The mind is a fascinating entity. Where, after all, would we be without it? But what exactly is it? These days many people believe the mind simply is the brain. Descartes would have disagreed profoundly. He recommended a dualism of substance. Modern philosophers are again finding various forms of dualism attractive because the problems with physicalism are so intractable. One such problem is whether the mind, like the brain, is located in space (specifically inside the head). But does philosophy have anything sensible to say about the mind? Surely today it is scientists we should be listening to? Come and find out why this is – and always will be – false.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Philosophy of mind • Identity theory issues • Non-reductive physicalism challenges • Alternatives to physicalism • Questioning assumptions in mind philosophy • Audience Q&A • Further resources and readingThis podcast, titled "A Romp Through the Philosophy of Mind," delves into various philosophical perspectives on the nature and essence of the mind. It explores fundamental questions about the mind's relationship to the brain, a subject that sparks debates between physicalism and dualism. While many modern viewpoints equate the mind with the brain, philosophers such as Descartes have historically posited a dualistic understanding, suggesting a division between mental and physical substances. The series investigates why certain dualistic ideas are gaining traction again, as challenges to a purely physicalist approach remain unresolved.
The podcast journeys through different philosophical theories, beginning with the Identity Theory and its perceived limitations. As it progresses, it examines non-reductive physicalisms and the inherent difficulties they encounter. This reflects an ongoing philosophical discourse seeking alternatives to the prevailing ideas about the mind's nature. In addition, it raises the possibility that the current questions being asked about the mind might themselves be flawed, opening a dialogue on whether a shift in perspective could lead to a better understanding.
The series culminates in an interactive segment, where listeners engage in a question-and-answer session, offering further insights into the topics discussed throughout the episodes. A mention of additional resources suggests avenues for further exploration, indicating the podcast's aim to stimulate curiosity and deepen the listener's knowledge of philosophical inquiries into the mind. Throughout the podcast, emphasis is placed on philosophy's continuing relevance in discussions often dominated by scientific perspectives.
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Part 1: Identity Theory and Why it Won't Work 2012-Feb-07 90 minutes |
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Part 1: Identity Theory and Why it Won't Work (Slides) 2012-Feb-07 |
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Part 2: Non-Reductive Physicalisms and the Problems they Face 2012-Feb-07 91 minutes |
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Part 2: Non-Reductive Physicalisms and the Problems they Face (Slides) 2012-Feb-07 |
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Part 3: If Physicalism Won't Work, What is the Alternative? 2012-Feb-07 67 minutes |
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Part 3: If Physicalism Won't Work, What is the Alternative? (Slides) 2012-Feb-07 |
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Part 4: Are We Asking the Wrong Questions? 2012-Feb-07 82 minutes |
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Part 4: Are We Asking the Wrong Questions? (Slides) 2012-Feb-07 |
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Part 5: Questions and Answers 2012-Apr-10 67 minutes |
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Further reading and more... (Other Resource) 2012-Apr-16 |