Single Idea 8337

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 8. Particular Causation / a. Observation of causation]

Full Idea

It is sometimes suggested that our ability to recognise a single occurrence as an instance of mental causation is a feature which distinguishes mental causation from physical or 'Humean' causation.

Clarification

'Humean' causation needs regularities

Gist of Idea

Some says mental causation is distinct because we can recognise single occurrences

Source

J.L. Mackie (Causes and Conditions [1965], §9)

Book Reference

'Causation', ed/tr. Sosa,E. /Tooley,M. [OUP 1993], p.54


A Reaction

Hume says regularities are needed for mental causation too. Concentrate hard on causing a lightning flash - 'did I do that?' Gradually recovering from paralysis; you wouldn't just move your leg once, and know it was all right!