Qualitative Consciousness: Themes from the Philosophy of David Rosenthal

Qualitative consciousness is conscious experience marked by sensory qualities, and David Rosenthal has defended an influential theoretical approach to explaining it. This approach involves the development of two theories: the higher-order thought theory of mental state consciousness and the quality space theory of sensory quality. This interdisciplinary collection develops, criticizes, and expands upon themes inspired by Rosenthal's work, offering an exciting collection of new essays by philosophers and scientists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Qualitative consciousness is a profound and intricate phenomenon that encompasses the subjective experience of sensory qualities. It involves the conscious awareness of sensations, emotions, and thoughts that are characterized by their distinct properties. One such example is the painful sensation we feel when we accidentally step on a piano or witness the breathtaking display of colors in a sunset. Throughout his illustrious career, philosopher David Rosenthal has championed a groundbreaking theoretical framework aimed at elucidating the nature of qualitative consciousness. This approach involves the development of two interconnected theories: the higher-order thought theory of mental state consciousness and the quality space theory of sensory quality. By dividing the complex problem of explaining qualitative consciousness into two more manageable components, Rosenthal's approach offers a promising avenue for understanding what has been deemed an intractable explanatory puzzle. This interdisciplinary collection, curated by experts in the field, takes inspiration from Rosenthal's work and expands upon its themes. The result is an exhilarating compilation of fresh essays authored by philosophers and scientists, which will captivate anyone engaged in the study of consciousness. Through their insightful contributions, these scholars shed light on the intricate mechanisms that underpin our subjective experiences, providing valuable insights into the nature of qualitative consciousness and its profound implications for our understanding of the human mind and the world around us.

Weight: 1385g
ISBN-13: 9781108487832