Single Idea 6626

[catalogued under 15. Nature of Minds / B. Features of Minds / 1. Consciousness / c. Parts of consciousness]

Full Idea

There is 'phenomenal' consciousness, which is what is distinctive of qualitative states of experience, and 'apperceptive' consciousness, which is awareness of all of one's mental states, including beliefs and desires.

Gist of Idea

'Phenomenal' consciousness is of qualities; 'apperceptive' consciousness includes beliefs and desires

Source

E.J. Lowe (Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind [2000], Ch. 3)

Book Reference

Lowe,E.J.: 'Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind' [CUP 2000], p.61


A Reaction

I am not convinced that this distinction is sharp enough to be useful, though I approve of trying to analyse the components of consciousness. Is there 'intentional' consciousness? Desires, and even beliefs, can have qualities.