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Passive Causation: Making Interactionism Work.

Authors :
Lewtas, Patrick
Source :
Journal of Consciousness Studies. Sep/Oct2018, Vol. 25 Issue 9/10, p139-162. 24p.
Publication Year :
2018

Abstract

This paper advances a theory of interactionist mental causation within a non-physicalist property dualist framework. It builds from Chalmers' argument that non-physical experiences can't have causal powers. It reinterprets this as a constraint, then identifies the unique model satisfying it. This has the experience existing passively with physical nature responding actively to it. The paper explores the causal theory presupposed thereby; applies its model to standard property dualism (emergentism) and particulate property dualism (panpsychism); shows how the model coheres with science; integrates it into a revised functionalist framework having three levels instead of the usual two; explains why consciousness detectors will remain impossible; and argues that dualists should find the model troubling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13558250
Volume :
25
Issue :
9/10
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Journal of Consciousness Studies
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
132047640