
What is a Mind?
Cunningham
Designed for a first course in the philosophy of mind, this book has several distinctive features. Unlike any other book of its kind, it offers extensive treatment of the emotions and of the problem of other minds. Throughout the text insights from other relevant disciplines--psychology, neuroscience, evolutionary biology, anthropology, computer science--are integrated into a philosophical framework. A section is devoted to a concise discussion of the factors to consider when assessing any theory. An ongoing series of Notes on Terminology explains each of the technical terms used. Each chapter is followed by a list of Issues for Discussion, and Suggested Research Projects--short, focused assignments that introduce the reader to materials of interest outside the text.
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Reviews for What is a Mind?
Owen Flanagan, James B. Duke Professor of Philosophy, Duke University A terrific introduction to Philosophy of Mind that moves gracefully from mainstream topics to others that are gaining attention in the field, yet are rarely broached in introductory texts: e.g., one chapter apiece devoted to emotions, evolution and animal (especially early hominid) minds, and theories of self. The book does a good job of integrating the empirical with the philosophical. . . . It is perhaps the most accessible introduction to the Philosophy of Mind currently available, an ideal book for people with little or no background in Philosophy. Terms that are unfamiliar or used in unfamiliar ways are clearly explained in boxed text. Theories such as functionalism are set in not just their philosophical contexts but also their broad intellectual and cultural milieus. I recommend the book enthusiastically.
Robert Gordon, University of Missouri-St. Louis The book has several virtues. Overall, the writing is clear, the discussions are accurate, and the material does not presuppose any background philosophical knowledge. I was pleased and surprised to see a chapter on the emotions. For some reason that I do not understand, a discussion of the emotions does not play a significant role in introductory books in philosophy of mind.
Abraham Witonsky ,in Minds and Machines: The Journal for Artificial Intelligence, Philosophy, and Cognitive Science