Belief, Imagination, and Delusion

This volume explores the nature of belief, imagination, and delusion, drawing on recent work in philosophy of mind and epistemology to formulate questions with new precision. Contributors from different disciplines explore issues such as the architecture of imagination, the role of metacognitive error, delusional experience, and the relationship between delusion and evidence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This comprehensive collection of essays delves into the intricate nature of belief, imagination, and delusion, offering a rich tapestry of insights. Philosophers of mind and epistemology have grappled with these concepts, employing them in their theorizing, while parallel endeavors aim to refine and clarify these notions. Delusions, typically considered bizarre beliefs prevalent in the clinical population, defy evidence-based reasoning. The primary objective of this anthology is to shed light on the essence of belief and imagination, exploring their interconnections and potential integration into accounts of delusional belief formation.

The starting point for this exploration lies in the notion that recent work in philosophy of mind and epistemology has sought to characterize the nature of belief and imagination with newfound precision. By drawing upon insights from various domains, such as the role of imagination in delusion formation, or the distinction between imagination and belief, scholars have formulated the issues with renewed clarity. Moreover, the volume delves into critical questions concerning the architecture of imagination, the significance of metacognitive error in our mental lives, the best approaches to understanding delusional experience, and the interplay between delusion and evidence.

The contributors to this volume are well-positioned to explore these complex topics from diverse perspectives. With expertise spanning philosophy, psychology, and cognitive science, they bring a wealth of knowledge and approaches to the table. The result is a diverse and rich collection of insights, offering a multifaceted understanding of belief, imagination, and delusion.

In conclusion, this volume serves as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of these fundamental mental phenomena. By bringing together a diverse array of perspectives and approaches, it provides a comprehensive examination of belief, imagination, and delusion, fostering a deeper appreciation of their complexities and implications.

Weight: 638g
Dimension: 241 x 165 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198872221