In Our Time

The Brain and Consciousness

16 snips
Nov 19, 1998
Stephen Rose, a Professor of Biology and expert in memory mechanisms, and Dan Robinson, a distinguished philosophy professor with a focus on psychology's intellectual history, delve into fascinating discussions about the brain and consciousness. They explore the complex relationship between the brain and mind, touching on ethical dilemmas in criminal behavior grounded in neuroscience. Additionally, they challenge the 'selfish gene' theory and navigate philosophical questions regarding the soul, providing a rich tapestry of insights into human nature and behavior.
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INSIGHT

Brain Sciences Lack Unified Theory

  • Neuroscience is producing vast data about brain function but lacks a comprehensive theory of the brain or mind.
  • Many deep philosophical and moral questions about mind and consciousness remain unresolved despite scientific advances.
INSIGHT

Brain's Extreme Complexity

  • The brain is the most complex known structure with over 100 billion cells and trillions of connections.
  • Its complexity surpasses the number of particles in the known universe, highlighting the difficulty of understanding it.
INSIGHT

Materialism vs Dualism in Mind Study

  • Materialists see all reality as physical, while dualists believe mental/spiritual substances exist alongside the physical.
  • Modern brain imaging tech revolutionizes brain study, but theory lags behind data availability.
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