Single Idea 6629

[catalogued under 17. Mind and Body / C. Functionalism / 8. Functionalism critique]

Full Idea

Functionalism seems to commit us to bizarre possibilities, such as 'zombies'.

Clarification

'Zombies' have conscious behaviour, but no conscious states

Gist of Idea

Functionalism commits us to bizarre possibilities, such as 'zombies'

Source

E.J. Lowe (Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind [2000], Ch. 3)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind' [CUP 2000], p.67


A Reaction

This goes with the tendency of functionalism to imply epiphenomenalism - that is, to make the intrinsic character of mental states irrelevant to thinking. I'd love to eavesdrop on two zombies in an art gallery.