Illusionism is the view that phenomenal consciousness (in the
philosophers' sense) is an introspective illusion -- that introspection
misrepresents experiences as having phenomenal properties. This view has
many theoretical attractions, but it is often dismissed out of hand for
failing to take consciousness seriously. The aim of this volume is to
present the case for illusionism, discuss objections to it, and
stimulate debate about this important but relatively neglected position.
The book, which is a reprint of a special issue of the Journal of
Consciousness Studies, takes the form of a target paper by the editor,
followed by commentaries from various thinkers, including leading
defenders of illusionism, such as Daniel Dennett, Nicholas Humphrey,
Derk Pereboom, and Georges Rey. A number of disciplines are represented,
and there are commentaries from critics of illusionism as well as
supporters. The collection is tied together with a response to the
commentators from the editor.