Dr. John Vervaeke cover image

Decoding the Enigma of Consciousness: Life, Cognition, and the Nature of Awareness | Evan Thompson

Dr. John Vervaeke

NOTE

Epiphenomenalism: The Illusion of Existence

Epiphenomenalism is critiqued as a term lacking true referents, particularly when discussing consciousness. Its definition becomes problematic as it suggests an entity that has no observable effects, challenging the very notion of knowing something that seemingly has no impact. The idea is dismissed as an epistemic and ontological contradiction, questioning how something can be recognized or deemed actual without causing any action. Moreover, the conflation of two distinct meanings of 'epiphenomenal' complicates its relevance, as one interpretation acknowledges effects that do not significantly influence the system producing them, illustrated by the example of steam from a steam engine whistle. This raises fundamental issues about the validity and utility of the term in philosophical discourse.

00:00
Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner