Libet’s Mind Time

Benjamin Libet

In his introductory chapter, Libet admits that his views on subjective phenomena have altered somewhat since he was a young scientist. He says that he started with a full belief in determinsitic materialism, but has come round to the view that the subjective cannot be derived from neuronal function. He now instead highlights the distinction between being clever in the sense of solving complex problems and being conscious. In contrast to many 20th century philosophers and scientists, he stresses the importance of introspection. He thinks that any evidence that does not involve introspection cannot be taken as evidence of consciousness. [Read more] ...