Epiphenomenon

Concept in philosophy of mind

An epiphenomenon is a secondary effect or byproduct that arises from but does not causally influence a process. In the context of the philosophy of mind, epiphenomenalism is the view that mental events are caused by physical events in the brain, but have no effects upon any physical events. Thus, mental events are seen as byproducts of brain processes.

Overview

The concept of epiphenomenon is often discussed in relation to the mind-body problem. According to epiphenomenalism, all mental states and properties are caused by physical states and properties, but they do not themselves cause anything. This view contrasts with other theories such as dualism, which posits that the mind and body are distinct and can interact with each other.

Historical Background

The idea of epiphenomenalism can be traced back to the work of Thomas Huxley, who argued that mental states are like the steam whistle that accompanies the work of a locomotive engine but does not contribute to its work. Huxley suggested that consciousness is a mere byproduct of the brain's activity.

Criticism

Epiphenomenalism has been criticized on several grounds. One major criticism is that it seems to contradict our everyday experience of mental causation, where our thoughts and intentions appear to cause our actions. Critics also argue that if mental events have no causal power, it is difficult to explain how we can have knowledge of them.

Related Concepts

• Consciousness
• Qualia
• Physicalism
• Dualism
• Mind-body problem

See Also

• Emergentism
• Reductionism
• Functionalism (philosophy of mind)

External Links

• Epiphenomenalism at the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy