The aim of this article is to present the views held by some Neoplatonists in the context of the problem of mental causation in contemporary philosophy of mind, and demonstrate that their position complements the currently accepted range of possible solutions. Section 1 provides an introduction to the topic under discussion. Section 2 considers the views of Plotinus and, to a lesser extent, his followers, St. Augustine of Hippo and Proclus. Each of them rejects the causal influence of bodies on …
Read moreThe aim of this article is to present the views held by some Neoplatonists in the context of the problem of mental causation in contemporary philosophy of mind, and demonstrate that their position complements the currently accepted range of possible solutions. Section 1 provides an introduction to the topic under discussion. Section 2 considers the views of Plotinus and, to a lesser extent, his followers, St. Augustine of Hippo and Proclus. Each of them rejects the causal influence of bodies on souls, while holding that the soul is capable of causing bodily states. Section 3 situates the discussed view in outline within the
contemporary debate.
