Deliberation and the First Person
22 Pages Posted: 19 Feb 2008
Date Written: February 8, 2008
Abstract
Philosophers like Shoemaker and Burge argue that only self-conscious creatures can exercise rational control over their mental lives. In particular they urge that reflective rationality requires possession of the I-concept, the first person concept. These philosophers maintain that rational creatures like ourselves can exercise reflective control over belief as well as action. I agree that we have this sort of control over our actions and that practical freedom presupposes self-consciousness. But I deny that anything like this is true of belief.
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Owens, David, Deliberation and the First Person (February 8, 2008). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1094443 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1094443
Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?
Recommended Papers
Feedback
Feedback to SSRN
If you need immediate assistance, call 877-SSRNHelp (877 777 6435) in the United States, or +1 212 448 2500 outside of the United States, 8:30AM to 6:00PM U.S. Eastern, Monday - Friday.