David Chalmers' Argument for the Logical Possibility of Zombies Cover Image

Davida Chalmersa argument z logicznej możliwości istnienia zombi
David Chalmers' Argument for the Logical Possibility of Zombies

Author(s): Jacek Jarocki
Subject(s): Philosophy
Published by: Towarzystwo Naukowe KUL & Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski Jana Pawła II
Keywords: David Chalmers; zombies; conceivability argument; two-dimensional semantics; conceivability

Summary/Abstract: This paper presents a reconstruction of the argument for the logical possibility of zombies, proposed by David Chalmers, which has been debated in analytical philosophy for at least fifteen years now. Beside discussing it, I’m trying to analyze every of its premises. My aim is, especially, to present how the reasoning can show that: (a) zombies/zombie worlds are genuinely conceivable; (b) conceivability is a good guide to possibility; (c) the possibility of zombies is philosophically significant. I’m particularly putting emphasis on some issues concerning two-dimensional semantics and distinctions of conceivability. The conclusion of this paper is that the argument is still not refuted, so a discussion over it should be conducted, instead of a priori refutation. The debate over zombies may have a positive influence on many fields of philosophical investigation.

  • Issue Year: 61/2013
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 23-42
  • Page Count: 23
  • Language: Polish