This Is Philosophy of Mind

Although scientific advances have deepened our understanding of how the human brain functions, many mysteries remain about the nature of the mind. Philosophers of mind investigate mental phenomena and their relationship to the physical body, exploring fundamental questions about the nature of consciousness, emotion, and thought. In This Is Philosophy of Mind , author Pete Mandik guides students of philosophy through the fundamental philosophical theories, questions, and debates concerning the nature of the mind. Assuming no previous background in the subject, this easily accessible textbook describes abstract and complex philosophical concepts in a reader-friendly narrative style. Concise chapters address topics ranging from traditional approaches to the mind-body problem to contemporary theories of consciousness and intentionality. This second edition remains the most comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to philosophy of mind available, featuring two entirely new chapters covering embodied approaches to cognition and emerging and future directions in the study of the mind. Updated examples, references, and annotated bibliographies are complemented by an enhanced companion website with further readings, videos, visual aids, links to relevant scientific work, and definitions of key terms. Part of the acclaimed This Is Philosophy series, the second edition of This Is Philosophy of Mind: An Introduction is the ideal textbook for upper-level undergraduates taking typical semester-long Philosophy of Mind courses, as well as students and general readers looking to tackle the subject on their own.