Descartes Debate

Dualism

The belief that the mind and body are separate entities, as proposed by René Descartes.

Subjective experience (qualia)

The individual instances of subjective, conscious experience.

I think, therefore I am

A philosophical statement by Descartes that asserts the existence of the self as a thinking being.

Materialism

The theory that everything, including thoughts and consciousness, can be explained entirely by material processes.

Free will

The ability to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or divine intervention.

Robocop (2014)

A film that explores themes of consciousness, identity, and the implications of technology on the human mind.

Blade Runner (1982)

A film depicting artificial beings that resemble humans but lack genuine self-awareness, raising questions about consciousness.

Qualia

The internal and subjective component of perception that distinguishes the experience of different sensations.

Self-awareness

The conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires.

Immaterial self

The aspect of a person that is not physical and is often associated with the mind or soul.