Quintessence of Dust by Harry Redner argues for a science of matter and a philosophy of mind based on emergence. Mind emerges from matter through five essential stages - "quintessence" (Hamlet). Human mind is differentiated from animal mind primarily by reference to art (Homo ludens). This approach draws support from Donald, Edelman and other palaeoanthropologists, psychologists and neurologists.
The emergent relation between two entities is defined as an indissoluble non-identity. The "mind as machine" thesis, artificial intelligence and cognitivism are criticised. The alternative emergentist approach comes close to Spinoza. The book attempts a synthesis of the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities based on philosophic premises.
- ISBN10 9004426027
- ISBN13 9789004426023
- Publish Date 26 March 2020 (first published 23 March 2020)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country NL
- Imprint Brill
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 386
- Language English
- URL brill.com/product_id4053904