Identity theory and functionalism

Question 1

What are the main characteristics of the identity theory?

Answer 1

• Mentalistic and physiological descriptions are
of equal importance (and MS are identical to PS)
• Mental processes are causally efficacious due
to identity with PS.
MS and PS are different descriptions for the same object, just seen from different perspectives.
psychophysical parallelism (is the predecessor of identity theory).

Mentalistic and neurobiological statements are not
synonymous but they Refer to the same process (they are synonymous according to the semantic physicalism).

Question 2

Achievements of Identity theory in general and type identity specifically.

Answer 2

1. Mental causation unproblematic
2. Physicalistic requirements are met: Causal closure
   and physical determination
3. Ontological simplicity

Question 3

Is identity theory compatible with reductive or nonreductive physicalism?

Answer 3

Nonreductive.

Question 4

problems of identity theory

Answer 4

1. The explanatory gap.
2. empirical proof.
3. Are there common features for the realizes (PSs)?

Question 5

Functionalism in general

Answer 5

• from token identity
• functional role instead of tokens (SRM) stimulus (hearing loud voice), response (run), Mental state (fear). this is a complete functional description.’
• difference from token identity can form model simulation.

Question 6

semantic vs psycho functionalism

Answer 6

Sem: R is a behavior described in everyday language.
Psych: R is a physical activity (neurobiological).

Question 7

problems of functionalism

Answer 7

1. Semantical Functionalism: can’t differentiate if one is in pain or acting like in pain.
2. Combinatory Explosion: Mental states in functional roles require other functional descriptions, etc.
3. Psychological Functionalism: is Not refuted

Question 8

what id the supervenience

Answer 8

B supervenes on A iff:
• No B-differences without A-difference
• A-differences without B difference

Consciousness supervenes on physical processes
• No conscious difference without physical
difference
• Physical difference without conscious
difference (Multiple realizations)

Question 9

The 2 main objections against Searls Chinese room

Answer 9

1. The system as a whole is conscious.
2. not complex enough ( no learning or ability to ask questions.
3. Criteria for consciousness are not defined.

Question 10

double aspect theory vs propert dualism?

Answer 10

they are identity theory vs interactionist dualism.

Question 11

type identity can accommodate multiple realizations, how ?

Answer 11

imagining the realizers as one functional neuronal law (MR at the level of the PS as well).