Mind and Emergence: From Quantum to Consciousness (Paperback)

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Editorial Reviews

Review

`Review from previous edition Endorsement: Philip Clayton provides here a carefully considered and closely argued defence of the idea of strong emergence in relation to both the natural sciences and the human mind. The erudite argument is well-grounded in the relevant literature and solidly related to the evolutionary process whereby complexity has come into being. The book will be an indispensable reading for those concerned with the `big questions' related to the human mind, such as issues of agency and freedom.' George Ellis, University of Cape Town

Product Description

Strong claims have been made for emergence as a new paradigm for understanding science, consciousness, and religion. Tracing the past history and current definitions of the concept, Clayton assesses the case for emergent phenomena in the natural world and their significance for philosophy and theology. Complex emergent phenomena require irreducible levels of explanation in physics, chemistry and biology. This pattern of emergence suggests a new approach to the problem of consciousness, which is neither reducible to brain states nor proof of a mental substance or soul. Although emergence does not entail classical theism, it is compatible with a variety of religious positions. Clayton concludes with a defence of emergentist panentheism and a Christian constructive theology consistent with the new sciences of emergence.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (June 29, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0199291438
• ISBN-13: 978-0199291434
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #657,949 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Is Spirit an Emergent "Property" of the Universe?, April 26, 2008

By	Max Johnson "Neo-Whiteheadian Doctoral Student" (Claremont, CA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Philip Clayton's "Mind and Emergence" is a brilliant synthesis of emergent/complexity theory, contemporary philosophy, and constructive theology. As usual, Clayton really treats us to TWO books in one: a concise introduction to the various forms of emergence theory and some of the theory's major players (ala "The Emergence of Everything," by Harold Morowitz); AND a tentative but boldly original proposal for an emergentist "Theology of Mind," both individual and, yes, Transcendent/Cosmic. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the leading edge of the science and religion dialogue.

13 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Written for Philosophy Professors, January 17, 2007

By	L.J. Stars - See all my reviews

This book is fine if you are a philosopher and interested in the concept of emergence. But if you are looking for a readable book, this is not for you. Phillip Clayton can write in an understandable way, but in this book he uses a very hard to understand style.

The book indicates that the concept of emergence is not well defined and the reader is likely to feel as confused after reading it as they did before. I would only recommend this book for an academic with a background in philosophy who is pursuing emergence as a concept. For the rest of us, it can be used as a sleep aid.