Author Description

This book aims to depict a wide landscape by reviewing some of the most important scientific and philosophical theories concerning the nature of mind and consciousness. Current theories on the mind-body problem and the neural correlates of consciousness are presented through a series of biographical sketches of the most influential thinkers across the fields of philosophy of mind, psychology, and neuroscience. The book is divided into two parts: Part 1 is dedicated to philosophers of mind, whereas Part 2 encompasses neuroscientists and experimental psychologists. Each part comprises fifteen short chapters, with each chapter being dedicated to one author. A brief introduction is given on his or her life and most important works, with explanation of influences and of the impact that the ideas contained in these works had on the communities of psychologists, neuroscientists, and philosophers of the time. The most influential theory/ies developed by each author are then explained and examined, with the aim of analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the different approaches to the nature of consciousness. An annotated list of essential references concludes each chapter.