In this paper Fodor provides both a historical and philosophical account of the rise of Functionalism as one of the dominant paradigms within both the philosophy of mind and the psychological sciences. Here he argues that the appeal of Functionalism arises in part from the critical failures of the theories before it – such as Logical Behaviorism and Central State Identity Theory – as well as it’s ability to integrate it’s predecessors successes without replicating their failures. Lastly, Fodor addresses possible problems for Functionalism and whether it is robust enough a theory to withstand it’s detractors.
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