Philosophy Identity Theory Questions Long
Identity theory, also known as mind-brain identity theory or central-state theory, is a philosophical position that seeks to explain the relationship between the mind and the brain. It proposes that mental states are identical to certain brain states, meaning that mental processes and events can be fully explained by physical processes in the brain. The historical development of identity theory can be traced back to the mid-20th century, with significant contributions from various philosophers and scientists.
The roots of identity theory can be found in behaviorism, a psychological theory that dominated the field in the early 20th century. Behaviorists argued that mental states were not relevant to the study of psychology and that only observable behavior should be considered. However, behaviorism faced criticism for its inability to account for subjective experiences and mental phenomena.
In the 1950s, the rise of the cognitive revolution challenged behaviorism and paved the way for the development of identity theory. Cognitive psychologists argued that mental processes, such as perception, memory, and language, were crucial for understanding human behavior. This shift in focus from behavior to cognition laid the foundation for identity theory.
One of the key figures in the historical development of identity theory is U.T. Place, an Australian philosopher. In 1956, Place published a paper titled "Is Consciousness a Brain Process?" in which he proposed that mental states are identical to brain states. He argued that mental events, such as pain or pleasure, are nothing more than specific patterns of neural activity in the brain. Place's paper was influential in shaping the early discussions on identity theory.
Another significant contributor to the development of identity theory was J.J.C. Smart, a British philosopher. In 1959, Smart published a paper titled "Sensations and Brain Processes," in which he expanded on Place's ideas. Smart argued that mental states are identical to brain states, and that mental events can be reduced to physical events in the brain. He proposed that mental states are not separate entities but rather identical to certain physical states of the brain.
The work of Place and Smart laid the groundwork for the formulation of identity theory as a distinct philosophical position. However, it was not until the 1960s that identity theory gained widespread attention and recognition. This was largely due to the influential work of Hilary Putnam, an American philosopher.
Putnam's 1967 paper, "Psychological Predicates and Brain States," provided a more sophisticated formulation of identity theory. He argued that mental states are not simply identical to brain states but are also multiply realizable. This means that mental states can be realized by different physical systems, not just the brain. Putnam's formulation of identity theory helped address some of the criticisms and limitations of earlier versions.
Since the 1960s, identity theory has continued to evolve and be refined by various philosophers and scientists. It has been influenced by advancements in neuroscience, cognitive science, and philosophy of mind. Contemporary versions of identity theory often incorporate insights from functionalism, which emphasizes the functional role of mental states rather than their specific physical realization.
In conclusion, the historical development of identity theory can be traced back to the mid-20th century, with contributions from philosophers such as Place, Smart, and Putnam. It emerged as a response to behaviorism and the cognitive revolution, seeking to explain the relationship between the mind and the brain. Over time, identity theory has evolved and incorporated insights from various disciplines, shaping our understanding of the mind-brain relationship.