Nearly All Philosophers and Neuroscientists Reject Mind-Body Dualism

question 61

Multiple Choice

Nearly all philosophers and neuroscientists reject mind-body dualism. The primary objection is that that it conflicts with the law of conservation of matter and energy in physics. The only way to accelerate matter or transform energy, including the matter and energy in your body, is to act upon it with other matter or energy. For these reasons, if your mind is going to influence the matter or energy of your brain or any other part of your body, your mind must itself be composed of matter or energy. James W. Kalat, Biological Psychology, 7^th ed.

• A) Argument, conclusion: The only way to accelerate ... other matter or energy.
• B) Argument, conclusion: If your mind is going to influence ... matter or energy.
• C) Argument, conclusion: The primary objection ... matter and energy in physics.
• D) Nonargument.
• E) Argument, conclusion: Nearly all philosophers ... mind-body dualism.

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Definitions:

Humanistic Psychologist

A psychologist specializing in humanistic psychology, which emphasizes individual potential and stresses the importance of growth and self-actualization.

Personal Growth

The process of improving oneself through activities that develop talents and potential, contribute to self-actualization, and enrich quality of life.

Unconscious

A level of consciousness that reflects a lack of awareness of the external world and inner mental activity.

Sigmund Freud

An Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis, a method for treating psychopathology through dialogue between a patient and a psychoanalyst.