Philosophy ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 4-15-2023

Abstract

This dissertation concerns the intersection between the early thinking of the 19th century German idealist F.W.J. Schelling and some of the problems within the contemporary philosophy of mind. I aim to show that a study of Schelling’s work illuminates research paths still left open to us today when confronting the problems surrounding the mind’s place in the world. I provide an overview of the trajectory of Schelling’s early thought. I argue that while Schelling’s philosophy changes during the course of his career, each of his positions is concerned with establishing a foundationalist monism. I criticize versions of his view but extract some insights. I argue that Schelling’s position interfaces with a wider set of current topics in the philosophy of mind literature, namely the mind-body problem, the issue of mental causation, the mystery of qualia, and the question of mind’s relation to substance.

Degree Name

Philosophy

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Philosophy

First Committee Member (Chair)

Adrian Johnston

Second Committee Member

Paul Livingston

Third Committee Member

Kelly Becker

Fourth Committee Member

Benjamin Berger

Language

English

Keywords

Schelling, German Idealism, Philosophy of Mind, Mental Causation, Qualia, Type-f monism

Document Type

Dissertation

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