Serendip is an independent site partnering with faculty at multiple colleges and universities around the world. Happy exploring!

Reply to comment

Antonia J's picture

mind/soul versus brain

I was also one of the people who said they believed in Descartes' mind/soul theory... but I did so with some trepidation, as I believe very strongly that the brain, and its chemicals and neurons, etc., must be largely responsible for behavior. Genetics would come into play, as would brain damage, and many other things.

But I find it simplistic to argue one way or the other... and as I say this, I acknowledge that perhaps this is in itself a simplistic argument... but I can't imagine that the brain is SOLELY responsible for one's behavior. It is active at all times, and is definitely an essential aspect of a person's personality/behavior. I wouldn't dream to say that this isn't true. But, perhaps out of personal weakness (who was it that said that religion... I'll substitute spirituality here... was a crutch for the feeble-minded?), I just find it impossible to believe that there isn't something else... perhaps an energy, or something. I would find it unscientific to say that Descartes' theory explains everything. I would also, however, think it is perhaps too simplistic to think that the brain (with all its complexity) is responsible for one's behavior. It is always present, but can it really be the only part of a person that affects their actions, emotions, beliefs, etc?

 Maybe I've just gotten the wrong end of the stick, and misunderstood the question... but I just wanted to put this out there, and see what people would say.

Reply

To prevent automated spam submissions leave this field empty.
1 + 15 =
Solve this simple math problem and enter the result. E.g. for 1+3, enter 4.