False Consciousness and the Socially Extended Mind
Ane Engelstad
Perspectives September 1, 2016 DOI: 10.1515/pipjp-2016-0004 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that the Marxist idea of false consciousness is vulnerable to accusations of dogmatism and must be further developed to serve as a plausible tool for systematic social analysis. Proposes that incorporating Shaun Gallagher's theory of the socially extended mind can reinstate false consciousness as a reliable tool for analyzing cognitive dynamics within power structures. |
Abstract
Abstract: In this paper I present a problem for the Marxist idea of false consciousness, namely how it is vulnerable to accusations of dogmatism. I will argue that the concept must be further developed if it is to provide a plausible tool for systematic social analysis. In the second half of the paper I will show how this could be done if the account of false consciousness incorporates Shaun Gallagher’s theory of the socially extended mind. This is a theory that explores how the mind expands towards external objects and systems. I will conclude that it helps to reinstate false consciousness as a reliable tool for the analysis of cognitive dynamics within power structures.