Why isn’t there a philosophy of neurology?
Prof Vaughan Bell, UCL
While the philosophy of psychiatry has flourished as a robust interdisciplinary field, the philosophy of neurology remains surprisingly underdeveloped. Philosophical questions within psychiatry often centre on conceptual foundations, diagnostic validity, and the complex interplay between biological and psychosocial factors. Neurology, despite dealing with equally complex phenomena has not generated an accompanying philosophical field, despite some existing although isolated examples of engagement. This talk will explore this asymmetry and suggests promising avenues for philosophical engagement with neurology. Our working group of both clinicians and academics has identified some key areas in which neurology raises important questions that could be addressed through philosophical analysis. This talk will discuss three. Namely, characterising the phenomenology of neurological conditions, examining the ontological status of neurological categories, and understanding identity and personality change after neurological damage.
Bio: Vaughan is an academic at UCL and a neuropsychologist in neuropsychiatry services in the NHS
Venue: Streatham Court, Lecture Theatre A, University of Exeter
Virtual via: Zoom
Deadline to register 28 May 2025, 23:30 BST
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