Descartes made a sharp distinction between matter and mind. But he also thought that the two interact with one another. Is such interaction possible, however, without either a materialist reduction of mind to matter or an idealist (phenomenalist) reduction of matter to mind? These questions overshadow the Western tradition in metaphysics from the time of Descartes to present times.
The book makes an effort to stay clear of reductivist views of the two Cartesian substances. It defends a dualistic psycho-physical parallel theory which reconciles freedom of action with determinism in nature. Basic problems in perception theory are also discussed, with special emphasis on hearing and sound.
Because of the intrinsic interest of the subject and the author's non-technical presentation of it, the book should appeal to all readers with a serious interest in philosophy and psychology.
- ISBN13 9789048150113
- Publish Date 9 December 2010 (first published 31 March 1998)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country NL
- Imprint Springer
- Edition Softcover reprint of hardcover 1st ed. 1998
- Format Paperback
- Pages 180
- Language English