Single Idea 7520

[catalogued under 18. Thought / A. Modes of Thought / 4. Folk Psychology]

Full Idea

Folk psychology has not progressed significantly in the last 2500 years; if anything, it has been steadily in retreat during this period; it does not integrate with modern science, and its emerging wallflower status bodes ill for its future.

Gist of Idea

Folk psychology never makes any progress, and is marginalised by modern science

Source

Paul M. Churchland (Folk Psychology [1996], III)

Book Reference

Churchland,Paul and Patricia: 'On the Contrary: critical essays 1987-1997' [MIT 1998], p.8


A Reaction

[compressed] However, while shares in alchemy and astrology have totally collapsed, folk psychology shows not the slightest sign of going away, and it is unclear how it ever could. See Idea 3177.

Related Idea

Idea 3177 You couldn't drive a car without folk psychology [Dennett]