Dualism

Definition

The philosophical view that reality is composed of two distinct substances: the mind (non-physical) and the body (physical).

Key Features

• Mind-Body Distinction: Mental phenomena are fundamentally different from physical processes.
• Interaction: Descartes proposed that the mind and body interact through the pineal gland.
• Modern Interpretations: Explored in neuroscience and AI regarding consciousness.

Real World Examples

• The ongoing debate about whether artificial intelligence can truly replicate human consciousness.

Applications

• Neuroscience: Understanding brain-mind interactions.
• AI Research: Debating whether machines can be conscious.
• Philosophy of Mind: Exploring the nature of consciousness.

Related Concepts

• Panpsychism
• Materialism