Single Idea 6645

[catalogued under 12. Knowledge Sources / B. Perception / 7. Causal Perception]

Full Idea

If we don't need to have perceptual experiences in order to see things (as 'blindsight' might suggest), the causal theory of perception cannot be correct.

Clarification

'Blindsight' is where a patient picks up visual information while thinking he or she is blind

Gist of Idea

If blindsight shows we don't need perceptual experiences, the causal theory is wrong

Source

E.J. Lowe (Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind [2000], Ch. 6)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind' [CUP 2000], p.156


A Reaction

This is because the causal theory implies a chain of events culminating in experience as the last stage. There is no suggestion, though, that unconscious perception would be non-causal, as it bypasses all the problems about consciousness.