Philosophy of Mind: A Short Introduction

How do you know that you really picked up this book and didn’t just dream that you did? Is the mind nothing more than the brain? Could a computer ever be conscious? In this lively and accessible introduction to the philosophy of mind, Edward Feser tackles these and other questions, giving clear explanations of all the most important theories, from the classic accounts of Descartes and Aquinas to the latest developments in the literature on computing and cognitive science. Using straightforward language without sacrificing philosophical depth, this guide outlines the major schools of thought and their different perspectives on consciousness, personal identity, and the mind-body problem. It takes seriously the arguments both for the against dualism-the view that there is a real distinction between mind and body-and is thus the first introductory text to reflect the growing challenge by contemporary philosophers to the dominant materialist doctrine. Full of examples and scenarios, and featuring a glossary of key terms and chapter by chapter guides to further reading, this is clearly-written, balanced and up-to-date introduction to one of the most popular fields in modern philosophy.