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The mind-body problem in the philosophy of mind and cognitive neuroscience: a physicalist naturalist solution.

Sandro Nannini

Neurological Sciences September 1, 2018 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-018-3455-6 (opens in new tab)

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AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed
Topics Philosophy of mind
Keywords Cognitive neuroscience Consciousness Epistemology Intentionality Mind-body problem Self
Citations 7
Key points Proposes that primary phenomenal consciousness is the format the brain gives to its dynamics for environmental fine-tuning, not a non-physical substance or property.

Abstract

Using an analysis of a voluntary action caused by a visual perception, I suggest that the three fundamental characteristics of this perception (being conscious, self-conscious, and provided with a content) are neurologically implemented by three distinct higher order properties of brain dynamics. This hypothesis allows me to sketch out a physicalist naturalist solution to the mind-body problem. According to this solution, primary phenomenal consciousness is neither a non-physical substance, nor a non-physical property but simply the "format" that the brain gives to a part of its dynamics in order to obtain a fine tuning with its environment when the body acts on it.

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