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This essay examines the philosophical theory of functionalism and whether it provides a convincing account of mental states. Functionalism defines mental states by their functional roles in a system rather than physical composition. However, functionalism faces challenges from the possibility of inverted qualia, functional duplicates without mentality, and the knowledge argument that complete functional knowledge does not explain qualia. While functionalism may offer the best current explanation of mental states, it has limitations and may not be the complete or correct account.

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15 views

Document 84

This essay examines the philosophical theory of functionalism and whether it provides a convincing account of mental states. Functionalism defines mental states by their functional roles in a system rather than physical composition. However, functionalism faces challenges from the possibility of inverted qualia, functional duplicates without mentality, and the knowledge argument that complete functional knowledge does not explain qualia. While functionalism may offer the best current explanation of mental states, it has limitations and may not be the complete or correct account.

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c.jandron13
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A-Level AQA Philosophy Essay

Introduction
In this essay, we will examine the question of whether functionalism provides a convincing
account of mental states. The hypothesis put forth is that while functionalism may offer the
best explanation of mental states, it does not necessarily mean that it is correct. This essay
will explore the concept of functionalism, as well as key issues related to the theory.
Functionalism
Functionalism is a philosophical theory that suggests mental states are defined by their
functional roles within a system. According to functionalism, mental states are not solely
dependent on their physical composition, but rather on how they contribute to the overall
functioning of the mind. This approach emphasizes the importance of mental states as being
involved in the causal relations that occur between stimuli and behavior.
The Issue of the Possibility of a Functional Duplicate with Different Qualia (Inverted
Qualia)
One challenge to functionalism is the issue of inverted qualia, which questions whether it is
possible for two individuals to have the same functional states but experience different qualia.
Qualia refers to the subjective qualities of conscious experiences, such as the taste of
chocolate or the color red. This challenge suggests that functionalism may not fully account
for the rich diversity of subjective experiences that individuals can have.
Criticism:
Critics argue that the concept of inverted qualia raises serious doubts about the explanatory
power of functionalism. If functionalism cannot account for the possibility of experiencing
different qualia despite having the same functional states, it raises questions about its ability
to provide a comprehensive understanding of mental states.
Counter-criticism:
Proponents of functionalism argue that even though inverted qualia may pose a challenge, it
does not necessarily undermine the fundamental tenets of functionalism. They claim that
while functionalism may not be able to fully explain the existence of inverted qualia, it still
provides a valuable framework for understanding the causal relations between mental states
and behavior.
The Issue of the Possibility of a Functional Duplicate with No Mentality/Qualia (Ned
Block’s China Thought Experiment)
Another critique of functionalism is presented by Ned Block's China thought experiment.
This experiment raises the question of whether it is possible for a functional duplicate of a
human being, where all the internal states and processes are replicated, to lack mentality or
qualia. Block's argument challenges the claim made by functionalism that mental states are
solely defined by their functional role, and suggests that there may be additional factors at
play in determining consciousness.
Criticism:
Critics argue that the China thought experiment exposes a fundamental flaw in
functionalism's understanding of mental states. If a functional duplicate can exist without
mentality or qualia, it raises doubts about the sufficiency of functional roles in determining
the nature of consciousness.
Counter-criticism:
Supporters of functionalism contend that the China thought experiment may not provide a
definitive refutation of functionalism. They argue that while this thought experiment
challenges the sufficiency of functional roles, it does not necessarily disprove the broader
claims of functionalism. It may suggest the existence of additional factors that interact with
functional roles, but it does not undermine the essential insights provided by functionalism.
The ‘Knowledge’/Mary Argument Applied to Functional Facts (No Amount of Facts
About Function Suffices to Explain Qualia)
One further objection to functionalism is known as the 'knowledge' or Mary argument. This
argument draws on the thought experiment of Mary, a brilliant neuroscientist who has
complete knowledge of the physical and functional aspects of color perception, but has never
experienced color herself due to being raised in a black and white environment. The
argument suggests that there is a gap between complete functional knowledge and the
subjective experience of qualia, which poses a challenge to functionalism.
Criticism:
Critics argue that the 'knowledge' argument highlights a significant limitation of
functionalism. If complete functional knowledge does not suffice to explain the subjective
experience of qualia, it questions the ability of functionalism to provide a comprehensive
account of mental states.
Counter-criticism:
Advocates of functionalism maintain that the 'knowledge' argument does not necessarily
invalidate the core principles of functionalism. They assert that while functionalism may not
fully explain the subjective experience of qualia, it still offers valuable insights into the
causal relationships between mental states and behavior. Functionalism should be seen as a
complementary approach rather than a complete explanation in itself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while functionalism offers a compelling account of mental states, it is
important to recognize its limitations. The challenges presented by the possibility of inverted
qualia, the existence of a functional duplicate without mentality or qualia, and the
'knowledge' argument highlight the complexities of understanding the relationship between
functional roles and subjective experiences. Thus, although functionalism may provide the
best account of mental states, it does not necessarily mean it is the correct explanation.
Further exploration and evaluation of alternative theories are required to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the nature of mental states.

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