A Quantum-Mechanical Argument for Mind-Body Dualism

Author: Barrett, Jeffrey¹

Source: Erkenntnis, Volume 65, Number 1, July 2006 , pp. 97-115(19)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

I argue that a strong mind-body dualism is required of any formulation of quantum mechanics that satisfies a relatively weak set of explanatory constraints. Dropping one or more of these constraints may allow one to avoid the commitment to a mind-body dualism but may also require a commitment to a physical-physical dualism that is at least as objectionable. Ultimately, it is the preferred basis problem that pushes both collapse and no-collapse theories in the direction of a strong dualism in resolving the quantum measurement problem. Addressing this problem illustrates how the construction and evaluation of explanatorily rich physical theories are inextricably tied to the evaluation of traditional philosophical issues.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1007/s10670-006-9016-z

Affiliations: 1: Email: jabarret@uci.edu

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