OUDCE: The Mind- Body Problem

Overview

The Philosophical Mind-Body problem is concerned with whether and how mental states could be physical states. In Descartes' day this seemed inconceivable. But we can't believe mental states aren't physical. Is this a question for science or for philosophy? Learners should bring a notepad and pen if they wish to take notes.

Descartes believed, and argued very convincingly, for the idea that mental states and physical states differ in their essential properties and cannot therefore be identified. But we can't believe mental states aren't physical. It just seems obvious to us that the mind is the brain, and that mental states are physical states. Many think this is a question for science rather than philosophy. Is this true? In this day school we will discuss all these issues, and see why this question remains a question for philosophy, despite the contributions that science can make.

Programme Planner
09:45 - Registration
10:00 - Setting up the Problem
11:15 - Tea/ coffee break
11:30 - The Identity Theory of Mind: a Supposed Solution
12:45 - Lunch
14:00 - Complicating Issues: Non-reductive Physicalism and its Problems
15:15 - Tea/ coffee break
15:30 - Question and Answer Session
16:00 - Course disperses

Learners may wish to do some background reading before the course. The lecturer has recommended the following books; 'Meditations on First Philosophy' by Descartes, Rene, 'Philosophy of Mind: A Contemporary Introduction' (Routledge 2004) by Heil,J.

This course is delivered by Dr Marianne Talbot, Director of Studies for Philosophy at Oxford University.

Assessment

Informal assessment will be carried out through group discussion and question and answer sessions.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Qualifications

This course does not lead to a formal qualification.

Skills

Work Placement

Learners do not need to be in relevant work to undertake this course.

Additional Costs

There are no additional costs associated with this course.

Code	Location	Start	End	Times	Day	Duration	Cost (Year 1)
97770 121301	Newbury	15/06/2013	15/06/2013	09:45 to 15:45	Saturday	1 Days	£55.00