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The Plausibility of Substance Dualism as an Approach to the Mind-Body Problem:
A Philosophical and Theological Inquiry
Richard J. Bernier
A Thesis
in The Department
of Theological Studies
Presented in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts at
Concordia University Montreal, Quebec, Canada
November 2003
(c) Richard J. Bernier, 2003
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY School of Graduate Studies
This is to certify that the thesis prepared By: Richard J. Bernier
Entitled: The Plausibility of Substance Dualism as an Approach to the
Mind-Body Problem
and submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Arts (Theological Studies)
complies with the regulations of the University and meets the accepted standards with respect to originality and quality.
ABSTRACT
The Plausibility of Substance Dualism as an Approach to the Mind-Body Problem
Richard J. Bernier
This thesis presents an argument that would posit a substantial non-physical principle of cognition and consciousness, i.e. a mind or soul, ontologically distinct from the physical brain and its properties. The case consists of, first, a series of arguments that seek to establish the rational foundation for this Cartesian or substance dualism and, second, an attempt to reply to some of the major objections to it. The second component includes a survey of physicalism, the chief alternative to dualism as a solution to the classic mind-body problem. The theological significance of the debate, and particularly of the status one accords to dualism in the debate, is the concern of the final chapter. The latter concludes that the implications of accepting or rejecting substance dualism are far-reaching for theological and ethical affirmations about human immortality and the worth of human beings. Some areas needing further discussion and inquiry, such as...
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