How does Identity Theory address the problem of multiple realizability?

Identity Theory addresses the problem of multiple realizability by proposing that mental states are identical to specific brain states. According to Identity Theory, every mental state corresponds to a particular physical state in the brain. This means that there is a one-to-one mapping between mental states and brain states.

The problem of multiple realizability arises from the observation that different physical systems can give rise to the same mental state. For example, a human brain and a computer could both exhibit the mental state of pain, even though their physical structures are vastly different. This poses a challenge to theories that seek to reduce mental states to physical states, as it suggests that mental states are not solely dependent on specific physical configurations.

Identity Theory addresses this problem by asserting that mental states are not just correlated with specific brain states, but are actually identical to them. According to this view, the mental state of pain is not just caused by a specific brain state, but is identical to that brain state. This means that any system that exhibits the same brain state will also have the same mental state.

By positing this identity between mental and brain states, Identity Theory can account for multiple realizability. It argues that even though different physical systems can give rise to the same mental state, they do so by having the same underlying brain state. Therefore, the problem of multiple realizability is resolved by asserting that mental states are not independent entities, but rather are identical to specific brain states.