Setting science free from materialism.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) January 1, 2013 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2013.04.004 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractMaterialism—the claim that all reality is physical and consciousness is merely a by-product of brain activity—faces a credibility crisis, chiefly because it cannot explain consciousness. Panpsychism, the view that consciousness is a fundamental feature of matter, offers a solution. Additionally, recognizing that minds are not confined to brains provides another way forward.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Alfred north whitehead C.s. peirce Francis crick Freeman dyson Galen strawson |
| Key finding | Argues that materialism is inadequate to explain consciousness and that panpsychism and the extended mind offer a way forward. |
Abstract
Contemporary science is based on the claim that all reality is material or physical. There is no reality but material reality. Consciousness is a by-product of the physical activity of the brain. Matter is unconscious. Evolution is purposeless. This view is now undergoing a credibility crunch. The biggest problem of all for materialism is the existence of consciousness. Panpsychism provides a way forward. So does the recognition that minds are not confined to brains.