Mental Causation: A Counterfactual Theory

Thomas Kroedel's book "The Causal Power of the Mind" argues that the mind has physical effects through difference-making, solving the exclusion problem and being available to dualists and physicalists. It is of interest to readers in philosophy of mind and philosophy of science.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 234 pages
\n Publication date: 15 July 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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Our minds have a profound impact on the physical world, as demonstrated by various phenomena. When we move our bodies or engage in actions, we witness the manifestation of this connection. How is it that our thoughts and intentions can exert such influence on the physical realm? Thomas Kroedel offers an insightful explanation through his concept of mental causation. He argues that if our minds were different, the physical world would also be different. Therefore, the mind plays a crucial role in causing events in the physical world. Kroedel's account not only elucidates how the mind can have physical effects but also addresses the challenging issue of exclusion. This problem arises when we consider that the same event can have both mental and physical causes. Kroedel's solution is unique in its scope, as it is applicable to both dualists and physicalists. He draws upon traditional views of causation as well as the latest developments in causal modelling to develop a comprehensive framework. This book will be of immense interest to scholars in the fields of philosophy of mind and philosophy of science. Moreover, it is available as Open Access, ensuring wider accessibility to the ideas presented within.

\n Weight: 356g\n
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108732208\n \n