Redefining Consciousness: From Cartesian Dualism to Materialism

This chapter examines Cartesian materialism as critiqued by Dan Dennett, contrasting it with Descartes's dualistic views on consciousness. It explores the complexities of how sensory information is transformed into conscious experience, emphasizing the distributed nature of consciousness within the brain. The discussion further delves into theories of self-awareness and the implications of pre-reflective experiences, challenging traditional frameworks and perceptions of what constitutes consciousness.