In this book, Damasio argues that emotions are essential to rational thinking and normal social behavior. He challenges René Descartes' mind-body dualism by presenting case studies, particularly the famous case of Phineas Gage, to demonstrate how brain damage can affect decision-making and personality. Damasio introduces the 'somatic marker hypothesis,' which posits that emotions guide behavior and decision-making, and that rationality requires emotional input. The book is divided into three parts, exploring case studies, explanations for the effects of brain injuries, and testing the somatic marker hypothesis[2][4][5].
In 'Feeling & Knowing: Making Minds Conscious', Antonio Damasio delves into the relationship between feelings and consciousness, arguing that consciousness is not solely a product of the brain but an embodied phenomenon influenced by nervous system activity. He discusses how feelings are essential for the development of consciousness and how they shape our experiences and decision-making processes.
Mark Seal's "Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli" delves into the tumultuous production of Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather." The book explores the complex relationships between the filmmakers, the studio executives, and even the mob, revealing the behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs. Seal's meticulous research provides a wealth of detail about the casting process, the creative differences, and the various threats and challenges faced during filming. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of a cinematic masterpiece, highlighting the human drama behind the iconic film. It's a must-read for any fan of "The Godfather" or those interested in the history of filmmaking.
In 'Self Comes to Mind: Constructing the Conscious Brain', Antonio Damasio presents a pathbreaking investigation into the creation of consciousness. He argues that consciousness is not separate from the body but is a biological process rooted in the integration of body and brain networks. The book explores the evolution of consciousness, from the proto-self to the autobiographical self, and discusses the roles of emotions, feelings, and memory in this process.
In *The Strange Order of Things*, Antonio Damasio delves into the concept of homeostasis, exploring how it underpins life, feelings, and the development of cultures. He bridges biology and social science to provide a comprehensive understanding of human existence and the role of emotions in shaping our world. The book offers a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of natural life and human cultures.
In 'Looking for Spinoza', Antonio Damasio explores the neurobiology of emotions and their role in human life, drawing on the philosophical insights of Baruch Spinoza. The book delves into how emotions and feelings are rooted in the brain's perception of bodily states, and how this understanding aligns with Spinoza's views on the interconnectedness of mind and body. Damasio's work combines scientific research with historical and philosophical perspectives to offer a comprehensive view of human emotions and their significance.
Today we welcome Dr. Antonio Damasio. He is an internationally recognized neuroscientist whose extensive research has shaped the understanding of neural systems and consciousness. With over a hundred journal articles and book chapters, he has earned many prestigious awards throughout his career. Currently, he serves as University Professor, the David Dornsife Professor of Neuroscience, Psychology, and Philosophy, and director of the Brain and Creativity Institute at the University of Southern California. His books Descartes’ Error, Looking for Spinoza, Self Comes to Mind, The Strange Order of Things, and Feeling & Knowing, have been published in translation and are taught in universities throughout the world.
In this episode, I talk to Antonio Damasio about consciousness. People often think that the mind and consciousness are the same thing, but Dr. Damasio disputes this notion. He argues that it’s the complex relationship of both our brains and bodies that makes sentient thought possible. Homeostatic feelings like hunger and pain developed before emotions; and along with it came consciousness. We also touch on the topics of perception, mental illness, evolution, panpsychism, AI and machine learning.
Website: dornsife.usc.edu/bc
Twitter: @damasiousc
Topics
02:17 Time-locked multiregional retroactivation
11:32 The difference between the mind, intelligence, and consciousness
18:37 Panpsychism is an escape
22:50 AIs can replicate minds but not consciousness
25:42 Feeling gave way to consciousness
30:59 The purpose of emotions
33:25 The evolution of feelings and emotions
38:28 The interoceptive nervous system
44:23 Does mental illness disrupt consciousness?
49:51 Creativity as a bottom-up process
54:38 Consciousness can hinder creativity
58:09 Scott’s interest in panpsychism
59:18 Can we ever make feeling machines?
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