Philosophy / Unit 6 Philosophy 0235 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Functionalism
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The idea
Functionalism: a mental state is defined by its causal role—its typical inputs, outputs, and relations to other states—whatever material plays the role.
In practice
Pain is what damage typically causes and what typically causes avoidance—in neurons, octopus arms, or, in principle, silicon.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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