Synopses & Reviews
Distinguished philosopher Keith Ward here weighs in on what are perhaps the greatest metaphysical quandaries of our time: is the human mind merely an intricate mass of nerve cells and synapses, or is it something more? Are human beings simply accidental results of millions of genetic copying-mistakes and freak accidents of nature, or is there actually something deeper and more sublime at the heart of both material reality and human existence? Using philosophical and metaphysical reflections rather than religious considerations Ward argues, winsomely and intelligently, that human consciousness does in fact transcend our physical bodies. Moreover, he posits, the fact that we are more than matter not only has profound implications for our human worth but also provides clues to the nature, value, and purpose of the cosmos.
Synopsis
Is the human mind just an intricate mass of nerve cells and synapses, or is it something more?
Table of Contents
Dualism, minds, and bodies : the problem stated -- A range of philosophical views about what is really real -- The limits of knowledge -- Putting minds first -- Questions of personal identity -- The place of human minds in the cosmos -- Dual-aspect idealism -- Metaphysics and common-sense philosophy -- In defence of dualism -- Consciousness, value, and purpose -- Thoughts and perceptions -- Minds and moral values -- Acting for the sake of good alone -- The idealist view of life -- Can we still speak of the soul?