Ch25. Mind-body problems - Garber, Wilson

Introduction

Problems of dualism

1. Nature of the union		
2. Relation between mind and body - causal or not?

Summary

Section I : Descartes' opinion
Section II : Later dualists' responses
Section III : Questions connected with the new mechanistic view (ex. relation between volition and natural law)

I. Descartes on mind-body union and interaction

Descartes’ view : real distinction between mind and body

Q. Relationship between mind and body

A. Mutual causation

1. Volition → body
2. Brain state → sensation, imagination

Implications of two-way interaction

1. Datum of ordinary experience
   즉 양방향 상호작용은 단지 일상생활의 관찰 결과다?
2. Theoretical implications
   • External body → sensation (since God ≠ deceiver)
   • Rational behavior (ex. language, etc.) requires immaterial cause

Charecteristics of Union

1. closely joined, intermingled, intermixture (‘feel’ pain(=confused perception))
   • ≠ sailor (‘perceive’ damage by intellect (=pereive the motions))
2. In it, mind-body interaction is not mere causation. It is much more intimate.
   • wills -> motions of limbs (not sufficient to estabilish union)
   • sensations, passions (sufficient to establish union)