Psychobiology

Abstract

Having elucidated the notions of function and role in Chapter 4, we may now look at the function of the most complex, intricate, and fascinating organ known to biologists: the brain, in particular the human brain. Interestingly, the philosophical problems concerning the function of this organ, in particular the famous mind-body problem, are usually not dealt with in the philosophy of biology proper, but are left to the so-called philosophy of mind. Only a few biophilosophers have considered the mind-body problem, among them Rensch (1971). (Regrettably, he espoused panpsychism, which not only lacks empirical support, but also suffers from defects analogous to those of hylozoism: recall Sect. 4.2 and see Vollmer 1985, Vol. 2) However, if the philosophy of mind is to be compatible with science, it must take biology into account, particularly neuroscience, so that it becomes a proper part of the philosophy of biology. So we shall make a brief foray into this area. However, before doing so, it will be convenient to recall some of the achievements of the biological approach to behavior, affect, cognition, and volition—the four main subjects of psychology.