Problem Set 01

(Be sure to review the instructions before getting started!)

1. The Platonic Soul

In a short essay, explain Plato's theory of the soul and why we ultimately rejected it as non-explanatory. (20)

2. Cartesian Dualism

In a long essay, explain the Mind-Body problem and use examples to explain Descartes' solution to the Mind-Body problem, Cartesian Dualism (Interactionism). Is Cartesian Dualism a plausible solution to the Mind-Body problem? Why or why not? (30)

Extra Credit: Mind the Gap

Is naturalism as an explanatory constraint adequate to account for the human mind? In a long essay, explain naturalism and explain whether and why you think any naturalistic explanation of the mind will be forthcoming. Do you think, that is to say, it is possible to for us to meet the engineering obligato of Dretske's Dictum, to bridge the gap, as it were? (20 extra credit)