An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mindprovides a lively and accessible introduction to all the main themes and arguments currently being debated in this area. The book examines and criticizes four major theories of mind: Dualism, Mind/Brain Identity, Behaviourism and Functionalism.

It argues that while consciousness and our mental lives depend upon physical processes in the brain, they are not reducible to those processes. The differences between mental and physical states, mind/body causality, the problem of other minds, and personal identity are also explored in full.

The second edition of this well respected text has been revised to include a new chapter which explores Aristotle’s philosophy of psychology and mind. It also includes new material on the Turing test and has been expanded and updated throughout.

The book is designed to help students think for themselves about all the issues identified above, and contains exercises throughout the text to stimulate and challenge the reader. Objectives are clearly set out at the start of every chapter to enable students to check their understanding as they proceed, and each chapter ends with questions to consider. There are discussions of the most cited contemporary writers in the field, so that the reader can gain a rounded perspective of the debates.

"A lucid and masterly survey of the problems that arise in this area, written in a way that should encourage readers to think for themselves about the issues."

Professor Roger Trigg, University of Warwick

"Students and teachers of the philosophy of mind will welcome the second edition of Keith Maslin's book. It is delightfully clear and user-friendly, yet with sufficient depth to lead students into the philosophical debates conducted in primary texts: qualities which made the first edition so popular - and deservedly so."

Trevor Hussey, Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College

K.Maslin, Head of Philosophy and Critical Thinking, Esher College

Acknowledgements.

How to Use This Book.

Chapter 1 The Mind/Body Problem.

Chapter 2 Dualism.

Chapter 3 The Mind/Brain Identity Theory.

Chapter 4 Analytical Behaviourism.

Chapter 5 Functionalism.

Chapter 6 Taking Consciousness Seriously: Non-Reductive Monism.

Chapter 7 Psycho-Physical Causation.

Chapter 8 An Aristotelian Perspective.

Chapter 9 The Problem of Other Minds.

Chapter 10 Personal Identity as Physical Continuity.

Chapter 11 Personal Identity as Psychological Continuity.

Notes.

Glossary.

Select Bibliography