Engelstad, Ane (2016) False consciousness and the socially extended mind. Perspectives: International Postgraduate Journal of Philosophy, 6 (1). pp. 24-35. ISSN 2009-9479

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Abstract

In this paper I present a problem for the Marxist idea of false consciousness, namely how it is vulnerable to accusations of dogmatism. I will argue that the concept must be further developed if it is to provide a plausible tool for systematic social analysis. In the second half of the paper I will show how this could be done if the account of false consciousness incorporates Shaun Gallagher’s theory of the socially extended mind. This is a theory that explores how the mind expands towards external objects and systems.
I will conclude that it helps to reinstate false consciousness as a reliable tool for the analysis of cognitive dynamics within power structures.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	false consciousness; social mind extension; enactive cognition; externalism; social analysis
Schools and Departments:	School of History, Art History and Philosophy > Philosophy
Research Centres and Groups:	Centre for Social and Political Thought
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
Depositing User:	Ane Engelstad
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2018 11:07
Last Modified:	02 Jul 2019 14:20
URI:	http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/79144

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