Single Idea 3911

[catalogued under 17. Mind and Body / A. Mind-Body Dualism / 2. Interactionism]

Full Idea

It is often held to be a consequence of the rationalist conception of substance, that separate substances cannot interact (since causal interaction is a form of mutual dependence).

Clarification

'Substances' are thought of as the underlying basis of existence and identity

Gist of Idea

The very concept of a substance denies the possibility of mutual interaction and dependence

Source

Roger Scruton (Modern Philosophy:introduction and survey [1994], Ch.16 n)

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'Modern Philosophy: introduction and survey' [Sinclair-Stevenson 1994], p.539


A Reaction

Yes, substances seem incapable of interaction, just as Leibniz argues that perfections could never interact. They are too pure.