The philosophical theory that physical brain events cause mental events (like thoughts or sensations), but mental events have no causal influence on physical behavior. Mental events are completely dependent on physical events. A form of Dualism.
Consciousness is considered a useless byproduct which accompanies actions without driving them.
Common Objections
- It contradicts the strong, common-sense belief that our thoughts and intentions cause our physical behavior.
- If consciousness has no functional, survival-enhancing purpose, it is difficult to explain why it evolved.