more from E.J. Lowe

Single Idea 6636

[catalogued under 18. Thought / C. Content / 1. Content]

Full Idea

The leading naturalistic theories of what it is that confers a specific content upon a given attitudinal state are the causal theory, and the teleological theory, both of which contain serious difficulties.

Clarification

'Teleology' concerns purposes

Gist of Idea

The naturalistic views of how content is created are the causal theory and the teleological theory

Source

E.J. Lowe (Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind [2000], Ch. 4)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind' [CUP 2000], p.101


A Reaction

'Causal' theories (Fodor) say the world directly causes content; 'teleological' theories (Millikan, Papineau) are based on the evolutionary purpose of content for the subject. I agree that neither seems adequate…