epiphenomenalism

[ ep-uh-fuh-nom-uh-nl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. the doctrine that consciousness is merely an epiphenomenon of physiological processes, and that it has no power to affect these processes.

epiphenomenalism

/ ˌɛpɪfɪˈnɒmɪnəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the dualistic doctrine that consciousness is merely a by-product of physiological processes and has no power to affect them Compare interactionism parallelism

Derived Forms

• ˌepipheˈnomenalist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• epi·phe·nome·nal·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of epiphenomenalism¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; epi- + phenomenalism

Example Sentences

Spotting me glance at one of the volumes, which bears the title Epiphenomenalism, he launches at once into a detailed explanation of the concept – but then breaks off in delight as his dog trots in and rolls at his feet.

From The Guardian

Since intelligence or consciousness must be provided for somehow, we are forced back upon either interactionism or else epiphenomenalism, more or less disguised under a euphonious name, such as psycho-physical parallelism or the double-aspect theory.

From Project Gutenberg

The medical philosophers of the eighteenth century, with their cramped Cartesianism, have had a great part in the genesis of the "epiphenomenalism" and "monism" of the present day.

From Project Gutenberg

For these and other reasons epiphenomenalism is today held by few, if any, philosophers. 3rd.

From Project Gutenberg

Some Realists maintain that the brain actually creates the representation, which is the doctrine of Epiphenomenalism: while others hold the view of the Occasionalists, and others posit one reality underlying both.

From Project Gutenberg