PHIL 2240 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5: Reductionism, Qualia, Propositional Attitude
Document Summary
Rejects the notion of the mind as an entity, a logical substance. The function of a thing i. e. what job it performs. What set of arrangements enables the thing to discharge its function. A function is independent of what enable it to function. Not identical with the arrangements that embody them, require some kind of embodiment to be carried out. Characterize mental states in terms of inputs, outputs, relations to other mental states. Input (tissue damage) --- pain --- output( groaning, desire to be rid of input (needs separate functional analysis) Mental states as a function comprise these, which also need to be functionally analysed. Metaphysical functionalism mental state specified purely formally. Expression of a conceptual truth, something that is necessarily the case and could not otherwise. 5. 3 psycho-functionalism and the concept of a person. What set of arrangements enables the function. Mental functions are incarnated in neurophysiological processes in the brain and central nervous system.
