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Single Idea 9114

[from 'Seven Quodlibets' by William of Ockham, in 17. Mind and Body / D. Property Dualism / 6. Mysterianism ]

Full Idea

The existence of an immaterial 'intellective soul' ..cannot be demonstrated; for every reason by which we try to prove it assumes something that is doubtful for a man who follows only his natural reason. Neither can it be proved by experience.

Gist of Idea

There are no secure foundations to prove the separate existence of mind, in reason or experience

Source

William of Ockham (Seven Quodlibets [1332], I Q x)

Book Reference

Ockham,William of: 'Ockham's Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Boehner,P [Hackett 1990], p.142


A Reaction

This is splendid honesty from a medieval monk. How would such a clear thinker have responded to modern brain research? Colin McGinn still maintains William's view, despite modern knowledge. Our ignorance produced conceptual dualism.