Single Idea 5790

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / B. Properties / 3. Types of Properties]

Full Idea

An emergent property of a system is causally explained by elements of the system, but it is not a property of the elements, and cannot be explained by a summation of their properties. The behaviour of H2O explains liquidity, but molecules aren't liquid.

Gist of Idea

A property is 'emergent' if it is caused by elements of a system, when the elements lack the property

Source

John Searle (The Mystery of Consciousness [1997], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Searle,John R.: 'The Mystery of Consciousness' [Granta 1997], p.18


A Reaction

The genie is 'emergent' from the lamp, and so (in Searle's meaning) is the lamp's solidity. I agree that the mind is 'emergent' in Searle's very weak sense, if that only means that one neuron can't be conscious, but lots together can.