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2 ideas
23658 | Consciousness is an indefinable and unique operation [Reid] |
Full Idea: Consciousness is an operation of the understanding of its own kind, and cannot be logically defined. | |
From: Thomas Reid (Essays on Intellectual Powers 6: Judgement [1785], 5) | |
A reaction: It is interesting that has tried to define consciousness, rather than just assuming it. I note that he calls consciousness an 'operation', rather than an entity. Good. |
4271 | There is consciousness whenever behaviour must be explained in terms of mental activity [Scruton] |
Full Idea: There is consciousness whenever behaviour must be explained in terms of mental activity. | |
From: Roger Scruton (Animal Rights and Wrongs [1996], p.23) | |
A reaction: Not a point that would trouble an eliminativist, as it sounds suspiciously circular or question-begging. |