Intentionality, Cognition, and Mental Representation in Medieval Philosophy

This volume examines the philosophical connections between intentionality, cognition, and mental representation as discussed by medieval thinkers, including Aquinas and Ockham.

The essays in this volume delve into the intricate conceptual relationships that exist among intentionality, cognition, and mental representation as interpreted by some of the most prominent medieval philosophers, including Aquinas, Scotus, Ockham, and Buridan. The collection also highlights lesser-known yet influential contemporaries who contributed significantly to these discussions during their time. By examining these philosophical perspectives, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of how these thinkers approached the nature of the mind and its functions.

A common assumption in contemporary philosophy is that certain aspects of medieval thought have been preserved in modern discussions, particularly the notion that mental phenomena can be distinguished from physical phenomena through their intentionality. This intrinsic directedness toward objects raises questions about the continuity of philosophical ideas across centuries. However, the volume reveals numerous exceptions to this assumption, challenging its validity and prompting a reevaluation of the connections between medieval and modern philosophy.

Intentionality, Cognition, and Mental Representation in Medieval Philosophy offers an in-depth exploration of the complexities and variations of the relationships that medieval thinkers established among these concepts. By bridging the gap between historical and contemporary thought, the essays illuminate fundamental questions in the philosophy of mind, encouraging readers to reconsider the evolution of these ideas and their relevance today.