In Descartes' Conception, Nonhuman Animals Are Machines, but Humans Are

question 96

Multiple Choice

In Descartes' conception, nonhuman animals are machines, but humans are not because only humans __________.

• A) possess souls
• B) have complex enough nervous systems to make it obvious that their actions are not governed only by reflexes
• C) possess senses, nerves, and animal spirits
• D) have a central switching mechanism
• E) all of the above

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Definitions:

Contagion Theory

A theory in social psychology that explains how ideas, attitudes, and behaviors spread through groups and crowds, akin to the transmission of pathogens.

Breakdown Theory

A sociological theory that suggests societal breakdowns, such as high levels of dysfunction or disorganization, can lead to collective action and social movements.

Anomie

A state or condition of society or an individual characterized by a breakdown or absence of social norms and values, often leading to feelings of alienation and purposelessness.

Contagion Theory

A social theory suggesting that ideas, attitudes, and behaviors spread through groups as if they were infections, influencing individuals to adopt them without conscious realization.