
The Physical Basis of Mind
Enriched edition. Being the Second Series of Problems of Life and MindBy George Henry LewesLength19h 4m
About this audiobook
In 'The Physical Basis of Mind,' George Henry Lewes embarks on a meticulous exploration of the intricate relationship between the mind and the body, positing that mental phenomena emerge from physical processes. Lewes utilizes a scientific lens, drawing on contemporary advances in physiology and psychology, and integrates a philosophical discourse that reflects the spirit of 19th-century empiricism. The text is rich in rigorous argumentation, combining empirical observation with theoretical inquiry, and serves as a remarkable precursor to the developmental fields of psychology and neuroscience. George Henry Lewes, a prominent philosopher and critic of the Victorian era, was significantly influenced by the scientific milieu of his time, advocating for a materialistic understanding of mental processes. His diverse intellectual pursuits, ranging from literary criticism to philosophy and science, provided him with a unique perspective on the interplay of psychological theories and physical realities. Lewes's significant contributions to the field of psychology and his close association with notable contemporaries, including George Eliot, further enriched his views on the connection between the physical and the mental. This thought-provoking work is recommended for readers interested in psychology, philosophy, and the historical evolution of mind-body discourse. Lewes's nuanced examination invites contemporary scholars and laypersons alike to reconsider the foundations of consciousness, making it an essential read for anyone intrigued by the dialogue between science and philosophy.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenrePhilosophy
Length19 hrs 4 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateNov 19, 2019
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
21CHAPTER VII. THE ELEMENTARY STRUCTURE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.
2Introduction
22RECAPITULATION.
3Synopsis
23CHAPTER VIII. THE LAWS OF NERVOUS ACTIVITY.
4Historical Context
24PROBLEM III. ANIMAL AUTOMATISM.
5The Physical Basis of Mind
25ANIMAL AUTOMATISM.
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6PREFACE.
26CHAPTER II. THE VITAL MECHANISM.
7PROBLEM I. THE NATURE OF LIFE.
27CHAPTER III. THE RELATION OF BODY AND MIND.
8THE NATURE OF LIFE.
28CHAPTER IV. CONSCIOUSNESS AND UNCONSCIOUSNESS.
9CHAPTER II. DEFINITIONS OF LIFE.
29CHAPTER V. VOLUNTARY AND INVOLUNTARY ACTIONS.
10CHAPTER III. ORGANISM, ORGANIZATION, AND ORGANIC SUBSTANCE.
30CHAPTER VI. THE PROBLEM STATED.
11CHAPTER IV. THE PROPERTIES AND FUNCTIONS.
31CHAPTER VII. IS FEELING AN AGENT?
12CHAPTER V. EVOLUTION.
32PROBLEM IV. THE REFLEX THEORY.
13RECAPITULATION.
33THE REFLEX THEORY.
14PROBLEM II. THE NERVOUS MECHANISM.
34CHAPTER II. DEDUCTIONS FROM GENERAL LAWS.
15THE NERVOUS MECHANISM.
35CHAPTER III. INDUCTIONS FROM PARTICULAR OBSERVATIONS.
16CHAPTER II. THE FUNCTIONAL RELATIONS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.
36ACQUISITION.
17CHAPTER III. NEURILITY.
37CHAPTER IV. NEGATIVE INDUCTIONS.
18CHAPTER IV. SENSIBILITY.
38Analysis
19CHAPTER V. ACTION WITHOUT NERVE-CENTRES.
39Reflection
20CHAPTER VI. WHAT IS TAUGHT BY EMBRYOLOGY?
40Memorable Quotes