The connection between intentionality and consciousness: a philosophical study

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22409/1984-0292/2024/v36/5810

Keywords:

intentionality, consciousness, phenomenal intentionality, separatism, rationality

Abstract

This paper discusses the relationship between consciousness and intentionality, arguing that these two fundamental features of mind are intrinsically interwoven. From the perspective of the Phenomenal Intentionality Theory (PIT), we explore how phenomenal intentionality depends on consciousness for its proper representation by subjects, highlighting Dennett’s view on original phenomenal intentionality. Then, we analyze Searle’s transcendental argument for free will, which has revealed valuable insights into how rationality can be experienced. By combining PIT’s assumptions with the analysis of free will, we argue that the experience of freedom to act is based on reasons and is mediated by consciousness. We conclude that consciousness and intentionality are not separate as isolated entities, but are interdependent and complementary. Therefore, understanding these facets as integrated elements is essential for a comprehensive understanding of mind. This study contributes to the theoretical and conceptual advancement in the field of consciousness psychology and provides a framework for future research on the interaction between consciousness and intentionality.

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Author Biography

Márcio Francisco Rodrigues Filho, Secretaria de Estado da Educação, Canoas, RS, Brasil

Graduado em filosofia pela UNISINOS (2011) e mestre (2014) pela mesma instituição. Graduado em letras - licenciatura em língua portuguesa pela UNIFACVEST (2020). Especialista em EAD e Novas Tecnologias pela FAEL (2021). É jornalista (registro nº 15689) e foi repórter no interior do Rio Grande do Sul e na capital (2008-2011). Recentemente lecionou Filosofia da Educação no centro universitário UNIFAEL e, anteriormente, pelo programa Jovem Aprendiz no SENAC (2012-2013) e em cursos de Economia e Negócios, na Júnior Achievement (2010-2011). Lecionou filosofia e sociologia para diversas escolas da rede pública e no EJA do Colégio Saint Germain (2017-2018). Durante a graduação participou dos projetos de pesquisa “Onde se aprende a alfabetizar? Um estudo sobre a formação de alfabetizadoras em Cursos de Pedagogia”, “A produção de um modelo de docência: um estudo sobre literatura de formação de professores”, e durante o mestrado e o doutorado participou dos grupos de pesquisa “TROLLEY: Ética prática, filosofia da medicina e filosofia da mente”, assim como do grupo “Filosofia política, normatividade e dialética” (2012-2017). Foi educador social (2017-2018) no CREAs - Centro de Porto Alegre, onde auxiliava na execução das medidas socioeducativas a jovens egressos da FASE. Leciona desde 2012, de modo intermitente, em diversas escolas da SEDUC-RS, as disciplinas de filosofia, sociologia, geografia e história, língua portuguesa, literatura e ensino religioso, projeto de vida, no ensino médio, fundamental e EJA.

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Published

2024-07-05

How to Cite

RODRIGUES FILHO, M. F. The connection between intentionality and consciousness: a philosophical study. Fractal: Journal of Psychology, v. 36, p. Publicado em 5/6/2024, 5 Jul. 2024.

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Articles