Each philosopher has their own views and theories about substance dualism. This essay will discuss the theories of two specific philosophers, Rene` Descartes and Leibniz’s law arguments, who agree with substance dualism and an opposing argument by philosopher da da. (identity theory for opposition and maybe functionalism?)
Firstly, Rene` Descartes’ theories on the philosophy of the mind or as it is also known as ‘the mind-body problem’ were the most dominant philosophical theories of his time (1596-1650). Although Descartes theories are now seen as outdated, they have helped to inspire the minds of modern day philosophers. According to Weed Descartes believed in a theory called Cartesian Dualism. Cartesian Dualism is very similar to substance dualism and is an ontological belief that every individual consists of a physical brain/body and a nonphysical mind, and that the body and the mind are both causally related but are not the same thing (Weed, 2011). Although part of Descartes theory has been proven wrong, such as that the pineal gland is the point of conversation between the mind and the body, much of his beliefs are still reinforced by 21st century philosophers. Descartes also