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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

December 7th 2024

cytoskeleton

cytoskeleton

n. an internal framework or “scaffolding” present in all cells. Composed of a network of filaments and microtubules, it maintains the cell shape and plays an important role in cell movement, growth, division, and differentiation, as well as in intracellular transport (e.g., the movement of vesicles).