Descartes' Theory of Mind-Body Dualism Illustrated by Phantom Limb Phenomenon

How does Descartes demonstrate his theory of mind-body dualism?

What phenomenon does Descartes use to illustrate the independence of the mind from the physical body?

Answer:

Descartes uses the case of the "phantom limb" phenomenon to demonstrate his theory of mind-body dualism.

Rene Descartes, the renowned philosopher, uses the intriguing case of the "phantom limb" to illustrate his theory of mind-body dualism. The phenomenon of phantom limb refers to the sensation experienced by individuals who have lost a limb due to amputation but still feel sensations or even pain in the absent limb.

Descartes argues that this phenomenon highlights the separation of the mind from the physical body. Even when a part of the physical body is missing, the mind continues to perceive and experience sensations associated with that missing body part. This, according to Descartes, indicates that the mind and body are distinct substances.

In Descartes' philosophy, the mind is considered a thinking, non-material entity, while the body is viewed as physical and material. The phenomenon of phantom limb serves as a powerful example demonstrating the independence of the mind from the physical body, supporting Descartes' theory of mind-body dualism.