Consciousness and action

Authors

Shaun Gallagher, University of WollongongFollow

Publication Details

Gallagher, S. 2018. Consciousness and action. In R.J. Gennaro (ed.), Routledge Handbook of Consciousness (298-309). London: Routledge.

Abstract

Consciousness happens before, during and after action. I’ll argue that for a complete and correct understanding of action, one needs to know precisely what role consciousness plays across these different temporal parameters.This is especially true in regard to thee question of whether consciousness is epiphenomenal – something that accompanies action but plays no causal role in action. I’ll argue that insofar as consciousness is characterized by intentionality, it should not be regardded as epiphenomenal.

Grant Number

ARC/DP170102987