ABSTRACT
In philosophical terms we face the following formidable problems: (a) the mind-body problem, (b) the problem of causation, and (c) hedonism. The mind-body problem derives from the dualistic assumption (Descartes) that the mind and mental phenomena are distinct from the mechanically operated body and physical phenomena. The problem arises in attempting to discuss the relationship or interaction between the two; for example, can mental events affect bodily actions? The problem of causation at the most general level is the problem of what a cause is and how we know one when we encounter it. Hedonism is the name for the position that human actions are the result of the desire to gain pleasure and avoid pain.
