

50 | Patricia Churchland on Conscience, Morality, and the Brain
Jun 10, 2019
In this discussion, Patricia Churchland, a renowned neuroscientist and philosopher, delves into the fascinating connection between neuroscience and morality. She explores how neurochemicals like oxytocin influence our social behaviors and moral instincts. Churchland contrasts Western and Eastern philosophies, highlighting how biological factors shape our ethical frameworks. The conversation also questions traditional moral theories, advocating for a nuanced understanding of conscience and its impact on moral reasoning.
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Neurophilosophy's Origin
- Neurophilosophy bridges neuroscience and philosophy's big questions.
- Patricia Churchland's interest was sparked by split-brain studies, revealing the brain's role in consciousness.
Early Resistance and Neuroanatomy Studies
- Initially, philosophers resisted neurophilosophy, arguing the brain was irrelevant to studying the mind.
- Patricia Churchland learned neuroanatomy at a medical school to better understand the brain's structure.
Universal Morality
- Some philosophers believed morality should be independent of the brain, applying universally.
- 20th-century philosophers sought a single moral rule applicable to all people at all times.