This discussion will help us understand how different philosophers connect the concept of having a “mind” to the physical structure of the brain.

Task

• Identify a philosopher who describes the relationship between the mind and the physical brain. Is their description of the mind and brain successful or convincing? Why or why not?
• Do you think your mind is something different from your brain, though connected and dependent (at least to a certain extent) upon it, or IS the mind simply the same thing as your brain?
• Make an argument for your view and use examples to illustrate your claims.

Making Connections

In your responses, be sure to address how the issue of the mind and the physical brain relates to what we addressed in Unit 1. How does the philosopher you describe in your answer make a careful argument about the mind and brain? How does their view of the mind and brain compare to what Russell said about math and science having specific answers and methods, but philosophy asking deeper questions?

Expectations and Criteria for Success

Your discussion post should answer each question above in at least two to three sentences. Successful posts will answer each question with specific examples and details from the assigned sources.