Consciousness and Self-Consciousness: A Defense of the Higher-Order Thought Theory of Consciousness

FROM THE PUBLISHER

This interdisciplinary work contains the most sustained attempt at developing and defending one of the few genuine theories of consciousness. Following the lead of David Rosenthal, the author argues for the so-called 'higher-order thought theory of consciousness'. This theory holds that what makes a mental state conscious is the presence of a suitable higher-order thought directed at the mental state. In addition, the somewhat controversial claim that "consciousness entails self-consciousness" is vigorously defended. The approach is mostly 'analytic' in style and draws on important recent work in cognitive science, perception, artificial intelligence, neuropsychology and psychopathology. However, the book also makes extensive use of numerous Kantian insights in arguing for its main theses and, in turn, sheds historical light on Kant's theory of mind. A detailed analysis of the relationships between (self-)consciousness, behavior, memory, intentionality, and de se attitudes are examples of the central topics to be found in this work.

FROM THE CRITICS

Booknews

The author argues for the higher-order thought theory of consciousness and defends the idea that consciousness entails self-consciousness, drawing on recent findings in cognitive science; perception; artificial intelligence; neuropsychology; and psychopathology, and integrating Kant's theory of mind. He analyzes the relationships between self-consciousness, behavior, memory, and intentionality. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Drew McDermott