How does Identity Theory explain the subjective experience of consciousness?

Philosophy Identity Theory Questions



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How does Identity Theory explain the subjective experience of consciousness?

Identity Theory, also known as the Mind-Brain Identity Theory, explains the subjective experience of consciousness by positing that mental states are identical to brain states. According to this theory, conscious experiences, such as pain or pleasure, are not separate entities but rather identical to specific patterns of neural activity in the brain. In other words, subjective experiences are nothing more than physical processes occurring in the brain. This theory suggests that mental states and brain states are two sides of the same coin, and any change in one will correspond to a change in the other. Therefore, the subjective experience of consciousness is explained as a result of specific neural activity in the brain.