What is Mind in Philosophy: An Introduction

This paper surveys historical and contemporary philosophical theories of mind, including dualism, materialism, and functionalism, and examines the problem of other minds and the debate between internalism and externalism. It argues that reconciling subjective experience with objective observation remains a central challenge in both philosophy and psychology. The analysis underscores the intricate nature of philosophical inquiries into consciousness and mental states.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The exploration of the mind is a fundamental pursuit spanning philosophy and psychology, with implications reaching into diverse practical realms. This paper delves into the intricacies of mental states, examining historical perspectives from ancient philosophers to modern theorists. Philosophical inquiries into intentionality, consciousness, and the nature of mental phenomena are scrutinized, alongside empirical investigations by psychologists. The discourse navigates through contrasting theories such as dualism, materialism, and functionalism, shedding light on the challenges of reconciling subjective experiences with objective obsNervations. The problem of other minds and the tension between internalism and externalism are dissected, revealing the complex interplay between individual cognition and external influences. Ultimately, this analysis underscores the intricate nature of philosophical inquiries into consciousness and the mind. KEY WORDS: Mind, consciousness, philosophy of mind, mental states, dualism, materialism, functionalism, internalism, externalism, intentionality, subjective experience, objectivity, psychology, other minds, Descartes, Hume, Kant, William James, behaviourism, computational theory of mind.