Functionalism and inverted spectra

摘要: Functionalism, a philosophical theory, has empirical consequences. Functionalism predicts that where systematic transformations of sensory input occur and are followed by behavioral accommodation in which normal function the organism is restored such causes effects subject’s psychological states return to those period prior transformation, there will be qualia or subjective experiences present transform. A transformation this type long been interest possibility an inverted spectrum. Hilary Putnam argues physical possibilty acquired spectrum inversion refutes functionalism. I argue, however, absence results no priori arguments against functionalism, as Putnam’s, can cogent. sketch experimental situation would produce inversion. The mere existence constitute refutation functionalism; only its persistence after properly count cumulative evidence from experiments on image suggests actual confirm rather than refute