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Research article2018Peer reviewed

Intentionality as a Driving Force

Liljenström ,Hans

Abstract

Intentionality - in the sense of purposiveness - is essential for the action perception cycle, which is central in Walter Freeman's work. In this paper, I will reflect upon Walter Freeman's view on intentionality and its relation to mesoscopic neurodynamics, also quoting him from a couple of unique dialogues. Further, I will elaborate on the role of intentionality for decision making and free will, in particular focusing on intentionality as a driving force in evolution and in life in general. I will also describe briefly a computational model of decision making and put that model in the broader context of the action perception cycle. Finally, in some philosophical comments on consciousness, I will discuss its dual aspects of intention and attention, which appears to be causally effective in the material world.

Published in

Journal of Consciousness Studies
2018, Volume: 25, number: 1-2, pages: 206-229
Publisher: IMPRINT ACADEMIC