We all have minds, but what exactly is a mind? Is your mind the same
thing as your brain? How does what's happening in your mind cause your
behaviour? Can you know what's going on in other people's minds? Can you
even be sure what's going on in your own? Are babies conscious? How
about cats? Or self-driving cars?
Philosophy of mind grapples with questions like these, exploring who we
are and how we fit into the world. In this student-friendly guide,
McClelland introduces the key ideas in philosophy of mind, showing why
they matter and how philosophers have tried to answer them. He covers
the major historical moments in philosophy of mind, from Descartes and
his troubles with immaterial souls up to today's 'consciousness wars'.
Additionally, he examines the implications that philosophy of mind has
for psychology, artificial intelligence and even particle physics.
McClelland lays out the centuries-long dialogue between philosophy and
science, presenting a uniquely grounded, practical picture of the field
for students.
Rich with real-world examples and written for the absolute beginner,
What is Philosophy of Mind? gives students the tools to delve deeper
into this dynamic field of philosophy.