Describe as accurately as you can Descartes’ “conceivability argument” to show that he is not identical to his body?

Answer any six of the questions presented
below. Each answer should be approximately 300-400 words in length,
although some can be longer, others a little shorter, depending on the question
you are answering. Answers must all be written in your own words. Do not
copy material.

1)
Describe as accurately as you can Descartes’ “conceivability argument” to
show that he is not identical to his body? What appears to be the main weakness
of this argument? (If you think it is a strong argument, then defend your view
by argument.)

2)
According to the identity theory of mind, mental states are identical to
brain states. What are the most important objections against the identity
theory? (Describe at least three.) How convincing are they? Defend your
assessment by argument.

3)
Explain as clearly as you can philosopher John Searle’s “Chinese Room”
objection against Turing’s Test of consciousness and the functionalist account
of mind in general. Does Searle’s thought experiment refute them? Why or why
not?

4)
Describe as accurately as you can John Locke’s theory of personal
identity. How adequate or satisfactory is it as an account of personal
identity?

5)
Describe as accurately as you can what is called the “narrative account”
of personal identity. How plausible is it? Support your view by argument.

6)
Some researchers in cognitive science have argued
that there is now “experimental” evidence (the button-pushing experiment described in the slides on free will) to show that we don’t have free will, and
that our sense of free will is just an illusion. Briefly, but clearly, describe
this experiment and then discuss whether it does refute belief in free will.

7)
Explain in detail why some philosophers, such as
David Hume, for example, believe that free will and determinism are actually compatible. How plausible is this view?

8) Assuming for the sake of argument that there are
many intelligent life forms elsewhere in the universe, how likely do you think
it would be that their thought or beliefs about the world would be similar
enough to ours that communication and understanding would be possible? Support
your view by argument as best you can.

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