Philosophical Foundations of Neuroscience: A Critical Examination

By M.R. Bennett and P.M.S. Hacker, this seminal work presents a comprehensive and interdisciplinary critique of modern cognitive neuroscience. This updated second edition addresses conceptual confusions in neuroscientific and psychological theories, providing a scientifically and philosophically informed survey of the field.

A Collaborative Effort

The result of a collaboration between a renowned philosopher and a distinguished neuroscientist, this volume offers a unique perspective on the conceptual foundations of cognitive neuroscience. The authors critically examine the works of prominent neuroscientists, psychologists, and philosophers, including Blakemore, Crick, Damasio, Dehaene, Edelman, Gazzaniga, Kandel, Kosslyn, LeDoux, Libet, Penrose, Posner, Raichle, and Tononi, among others.

Conceptual Entanglements and Criticisms

The authors identify and address conceptual entanglements in various neuroscientific and psychological theories, including those of Dennett, Chalmers, Churchland, Nagel, and Searle. They provide constructive analyses of the major cognitive, cogitative, emotional, and volitional attributes that underlie cognitive neuroscientific research.

New Discussions and Insights

This updated edition includes new discussions on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the notions of information and representation, conflict monitoring and the executive, minimal states of consciousness, integrated information theory, and global workspace theory. The authors also respond to criticisms of their fundamental arguments, defending their conclusions regarding mereological fallacy, the necessity of distinguishing between empirical and conceptual questions, the mind-body problem, and more.

A Comprehensive Reference Work

This landmark volume provides a clear and accessible presentation of the subject, minimizing the use of complex philosophical and scientific jargon. It offers fresh insights on mind-body and mind-brain relations, and on the relation between the notion of person and human being. With over 100 new pages, additional diagrams, charts, and tables, this comprehensive reference work is essential reading for neuroscientists, psychologists, philosophers, academics, researchers, and students involved in the study of the mind and consciousness.

Product Details: Publisher – Wiley-Blackwell; 2nd edition (March 14, 2022); Language – English; Paperback – 560 pages; ISBN-10 – 1119530970; ISBN-13 – 978-1119530978.