identity theory

the theory that mental states are identical with brain states. In token identity theory, identical mental and brain states occur within the individual. Type identity theory extends this to theorize that when two or more people share a mental state (e.g., the belief that ice is cold) they also have the same brain state. Also called central state theory; identity theory of the mind. See also eliminativism; epiphenomenalism; materialism; mind–body problem; physicalism; reductionism.