Single Idea 3458

[catalogued under 17. Mind and Body / B. Behaviourism / 4. Behaviourism Critique]

Full Idea

I believe that the relation of mental states to behaviour is purely contingent.

Clarification

'Contingent' is the opposite of 'necessary'.

Gist of Idea

Mental states only relate to behaviour contingently, not necessarily

Source

John Searle (The Rediscovery of the Mind [1992], Ch. 1.V.5)

Book Reference

Searle,John R.: 'The Rediscovery of the Mind' [MIT 1999], p.23


A Reaction

I don't think I agree, though it will depend on where you draw the line between mental states and behaviour. Since there have never been two identical states since the beginning of time, it is a little hard to test this one.