Mind and Brain: A Philosophy of Science

摘要: In the friendly contention between philosophers and scientists as to who can best do philosophy of science, Arturo Rosenblueth sides with his own colleagues scientists, have a surer grasp concepts methods used in science. He makes persuasive case, less by exhortation than example, this important book.The author is both scientific generalist specialist, two aspects together serve guide philosophic approach.As generalist, he organized seminar on method 1930s, student later collaborator Walter B. Cannon at Harvard Medical School, discuss these questions exponents many disciplines see them whole. Norbert Wiener, member group, has written about influence Dr. formulation cybernetics, notable synthesis embracing animal machine. book, continues search for universals.As neurophysiologist. thereby an experimental philosopher, field most likely provide hard answers central perception, sensation, volition, nature human knowledge. A nonneurological epistemology be only impressionistic, order allow lay reader follow discussions, book reviews present state neurological sciences, including speculations intrinsic uncertainties indeterminacies, neural events quantum level.Proceeding from nonbehavioral approach, regards mental experiences probes into their relationship physical brain link external reality. concludes that all directly apprehended material universe what coded afferent nerve impulses transmit information "structure" spatiotemporal events. Other properties we ascribe are character. This raises ancient question intersection realms, or duality mind.After reviewing writings Russell, Eddington, Fiegl problem, proposes modified dualism which (including brain) coexist measure independence. Although sensations end result causal chain begins events, conscious volitions not themselves links turn influences changes universe. Nevertheless, each event paired neurophysiological "correlate" that, being physical, interact causally other parts Brain mind function parallel--on separate levels reality constant relation but intersect.