The Controversy Over Physicalism vs. Non-physicalism: Which One Is More Supported?

Abstract

Physicalism and non-physicalism are the two dominant ideas currently being used to propose explanations for consciousness. However, a final consensus for an explanation of the basis of consciousness has not yet been achieved. This study analyzes the current viewpoints of physicalism and non-physicalism and the weaknesses of these viewpoints in order to determine which argument, if any, is more likely to comprise a definitive explanation for consciousness in the future. It assesses the popularity of each argument and the possible future direction for the overall debate. The study results suggest that physicalism is more popular than non-physicalism, although non-physicalism is expected to grow as an argument in the future in the debate. This indicates that a new explanation for consciousness that incorporates the ideas of both physicalism and non-physicalism may be developed.