Philosophy Lecture

Ever since William James (1890) raised it, philosophers have struggled with the question of whether—and in what sense—the stream of consciousness might be continuous: could it be really continuous (in the very same sense in which the series of real numbers is) or merely continuous subjectively (in the sense that there doesn’t seem to be any gaps in our consciousness)? While many philosophers remain unsure as to how to even start addressing this question, just as many express a complete certainty that, obviously, there cannot be any conscious sensory experience that lasts not more than an instant. After clarifying the terms of this issue, this presentation will critically assess some of the arguments advanced against instantaneous experiences and suggest that, in fact, such experiences may well be possible. Please bring 5$ for admission.