[Originally published January 28, 2021] I think Relational Quantum Mechanics (RQM), initially proposed by Carlo Rovelli, is the best interpretation of quantum mechanics.1 It is important to note right away, however, that I depart from Rovelli’s thinking in one important respect. He takes an anti-realist view of the wave function (or quantum state). As I will… Continue reading Why I Favor Relational Quantum Mechanics
Category: Philosophy
Metaphysics and the Problem of Consciousness
[Originally published April 16, 2020] In a recent post I talked about different frameworks for addressing the subjective dimension of consciousness. One path used ideas from philosophy of mind, the other looked to evolutionary biology. Of course, many who ponder solving this and related aspects of the mind-body problem take a more overtly metaphysical turn.… Continue reading Metaphysics and the Problem of Consciousness
A Panpsychist Surprise Ending
[Originally Published March 31, 2020] While I have been catching up on some reading relating to panpsychism lately (see recent posts here and here), I had turned back to thinking about another topic, the philosophy of quantum theory, when following up on some references led me to a surprise endorsement of panpsychism. Specifically, I have… Continue reading A Panpsychist Surprise Ending
Different Approaches to Subjectivity
[Originally Published March 25, 2020] In the last post, I endorsed a Russellian approach to the mind-body problem (specifically the view labeled “panqualityism”), noting that one of the important tasks this framework leaves us with is explaining the subjective dimension of consciousness. This problem arguably requires less of a deep dive into metaphysical waters, but rather… Continue reading Different Approaches to Subjectivity
Panpsychism!
[Originally published March 20, 2020] I have been enjoying following some debates about the problem of consciousness on twitter and in blog posts. In particular, philosopher Philip Goff has been tirelessly advocating the merits of panpsychism.1 As usual, this meets with a mixture of principled objections and more ungenerous responses. I thought I would revive my blog… Continue reading Panpsychism!