LAWS FOR REVELATION. THE COVERING LAW ACCOUNT OF EXPLANATION AND THE REVELATION PROBLEM FOR PANPSYCHISM*
Kriterion June 2, 2026 DOI: 10.1590/0100-512x2025n16201edom (opens in new tab) via DOAJ
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractPanpsychism, the view that consciousness is a fundamental feature of reality, faces the revelation problem: the challenge that if consciousness is fundamental, its nature should be more obvious than it is. This paper argues that panpsychism can address this challenge by adopting so-called laws of metaphysics—principles that govern fundamental features of reality. Appealing to such laws reveals that the assumptions underlying the revelation problem are themselves problematic, reducing the force of the objection. The argument is theoretical, not empirical, and does not present new data or experiments.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Phenomenal consciousness Panpsychism The revelation problem Explanation Laws of metaphysics. |
| Key finding | Argues that adopting laws of metaphysics helps panpsychism mitigate the revelation problem by exposing flawed assumptions. |
Abstract
ABSTRACT This research argues that if panpsychism adopts the socalled laws of metaphysics, then it will be better equipped to confront one of its most pressing challenges: the revelation problem. By appealing to the laws of metaphysics, it becomes possible to illuminate the problematic nature of the very assumptions underlying the revelation problem, thereby mitigating the urgency it poses for panpsychism.