Philosophy Identity Theory Questions
Identity Theory explains mental causation by positing that mental states are identical to physical states of the brain. According to this theory, mental states, such as thoughts or desires, are not separate entities from physical states, but rather they are one and the same. Therefore, mental causation occurs through the causal powers of physical states in the brain. When we have a thought or desire, it is the corresponding physical state in the brain that causes our actions or behaviors. This theory allows for mental states to have causal efficacy in the physical world, while still maintaining a reductionist view that all mental phenomena can be explained in terms of physical processes.