Mind Matters
The Person as “Immaterial Substance”
Sep 14, 2023
Dr. Joshua Farris defends theistic dualism and discusses the philosophical implications of personhood. They explore the interaction problem in substance dualism and propose the concept of holomorphism as a potential solution. The podcast also delves into the connection between immaterial and material things, using chirals in chemistry as an example. Additionally, Descartes' interpretation of his letters with Princess Elizabeth of Bohemia and his views on holomorphism are discussed.
26:55
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Quick takeaways
- Dr. Joshua Farris argues for the existence of the soul as an immaterial substance, suggesting a close connection between our immaterial nature and the concept of God.
- Ferris criticizes naturalistic views and proposes that a divine or intelligent agent is needed to account for the singularity and subjectivity of each person, going beyond explanations based solely on physics or biology.
Deep dives
The book 'The Creation of Self' explores the defense of the soul as a defense of personhood
In the book 'The Creation of Self', Dr. Joshua Ferris argues for the view that persons are soul substances, defending the existence of the soul as an immaterial substance. This perspective, known as theistic dualism, suggests a close connection between our immaterial nature and the concept of God. Ferris further develops the argument for a specific brand of soul called neo-cartesianism. This view incorporates the idea of first-person authority and the intimate relationship between the soul and God, in line with the Augustinian and Cartesian traditions.
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