ghost in the machine

a phrase used to emphasize the problems associated with Cartesian dualism, in which the mind is seen as a nonphysical entity (a “ghost”) that somehow inhabits and interacts with a mechanical body (the “machine”). See dualism; mind–body problem. [coined by British philosopher Gilbert Ryle (1900–1976)]

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

midbrain

n. a relatively small region of the upper brainstem that connects the forebrain and hindbrain. It contains the tectum (and associated inferior and superior colliculi), tegmentum, and substantia nigra. Also called mesencephalon.