Daniel Dennett Reconciling Science and Our Self-Conception

Daniel Dennett is one of the most influential thinkers at the interface between philosophy and science. This book is the first comprehensive examination of Dennett's ideas on the nature of thought, consciousness, free will, and the significance of Darwinism. A highly original introduction to contemporary thinking about the relationship between mind and science. This is the first comprehensive examination of Dennett's ideas on the nature of thought, consciousness, free will, and the significance of Darwinism. Examines Dennett's unique response to the question of when and how science should affect the conception that we have of ourselves. Casts new light on specific controversies: Could robots ever think, feel, and enjoy freedom? Does Dennett really explain consciousness? Are mental states real or merely 'useful fictions'? Do we have free will? Is the self a 'centre of narrative gravity'?

Matthew Elton is a former Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Stirling.