Original scientific paper

On Understanding a Theory on Conscious Experiences

Erhan Demircioğlu ; Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey

Abstract

McGinn claims, among other things, that we cannot understand the theory that explains how echolocationary experiences arise from the bat’s brain. One of McGinn’s arguments for this claim appeals to the fact that we cannot know in principle what it is like to have echolocationary experiences. According to Kirk, McGinn’s argument fails because it rests on an illegitimate assumption concerning what explanatory theories are supposed to accomplish. However, I will argue that Kirk’s objection misfires because he misapprehends McGinn’s argument. Further, I will articulate and briefly assess some ways in which McGinn’s argument can be blocked.

Keywords

The mind-body problem; Concepts of consciousness; What it is like to be a bat; Colin McGinn; Robert Kirk.

Hrčak ID:

253503

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/253503

Publication date:

10.5.2018.

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