Single Idea 4759

[catalogued under 17. Mind and Body / C. Functionalism / 1. Functionalism]

Full Idea

For functionalism mental states as roles are second-order properties that have to be realised in various ways in first-order physical properties.

Gist of Idea

Mental states as functions are second-order properties, realised by first-order physical properties

Source

Pascal Engel (Truth [2002], §3.3)

Book Reference

Engel,Pascal: 'Truth' [Acumen 2002], p.86


A Reaction

I take that to be properties-of-properties, as in 'bright red' or 'poignantly beautiful'. I am inclined to think (with Edelman) that mind is a process, not a property.