Jose Luis Bermudez
Abstract
This paper explores some foundational problems in the categorisation
of qualitative states. I approach this issue as a philosopher. I will
try to bring out, though, why the issue is essentially
interdisciplinary. Philosophical thinking about qualitative states
leads directly to consideration of the techniques used in
psychophysics and psychomentrics P particularly the techniques used to
provide an operational understanding of qualitative
identity. Evaluating whether this operational understanding of
qualitative identity is adequate, however, immediately intersects with
several important areas of philosophical enquiry. The thoughts that I
will sketch out are largely programmatic. They point towards defining
an interdisciplinary research programme.
Stirling University