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RIP Daniel Dennett
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In summary, "RIP Daniel Dennett" reflects on the life and contributions of the renowned philosopher and cognitive scientist, Daniel Dennett. It highlights his influential ideas on consciousness, free will, and the philosophy of mind, celebrating his role in advancing discussions in these fields. The piece notes his impact on both academic circles and popular understanding of complex philosophical concepts, and acknowledges the legacy he leaves behind in philosophy and science.
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Arjan82
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Yeah, he was my favorite philosopher. In fact, before I discovered him I thought philosophy was this weird thing where you asked silly questions like what the essence of existence is, what is the meaning of life or this Aristoteles stuff which was all a bit far-fetched to me. Nice to think about but otherwise useless. Dennett was the first to make me see the use of philosophy and how it actually can connect with science and add to it.
The lucid and exact way that Dennett could explain things was so inspiring to me. Sad to see him go
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The lucid and exact way that Dennett could explain things was so inspiring to me. Sad to see him go
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PeterDonis
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I have been a fan of Dennett ever since I read The Mind's I in the early 1980s (which I read because I had like Godel, Escher, Bach and wanted to read more Hofstadter), and then Brainstorms. I have since read every book he has published on consciousness and free will. He will be sorely missed.
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pines-demon
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Very missed, very insightful in relation to consciousness, philosophy and the role of science. However, I was not a fan of his take on free will.
FAQ: RIP Daniel Dennett
What happened to Daniel Dennett?
As of my last update, Daniel Dennett is alive. However, there may have been rumors or misunderstandings regarding his health or status, which can sometimes lead to false announcements about someone's passing.
Who is Daniel Dennett?
Daniel Dennett is an American philosopher, cognitive scientist, and writer known for his work on philosophy of mind, consciousness, and evolutionary biology. He has contributed significantly to discussions on free will, artificial intelligence, and the nature of consciousness.
What are some of Daniel Dennett's most notable works?
Some of Dennett's most influential books include "Consciousness Explained," "Darwin's Dangerous Idea," "Breaking the Spell," and "From Bacteria to Bach and Back." These works explore various aspects of consciousness, evolution, and the philosophy of science.
What is Daniel Dennett's view on consciousness?
Dennett argues that consciousness is not a singular entity but rather a collection of processes and functions that arise from the brain's activity. He promotes a functionalist perspective, suggesting that consciousness can be understood in terms of its evolutionary advantages and its role in behavior and decision-making.
Has Daniel Dennett been involved in any controversies?
Yes, Dennett has been involved in various debates, particularly regarding topics like religion, free will, and artificial intelligence. His views often challenge traditional beliefs and provoke strong reactions, leading to both support and criticism from different academic and public circles.