A Comparison of Abstract Metaphysics in Analytic Philosophy with the Concept of Embodiment in Phenomenology, and Its Psychological Implications
In the complex landscape of philosophical inquiry, the relationship between abstract metaphysics, the notion of embodiment within phenomenology, and its psychological implications has created a rich, albeit frequently misinterpreted, narrative. This research undertakes an extensive exploration of philosophical history, centering on five distinct chapters that clarify the development of these three interconnected fields and their possible intersection. Chapter 1, “Historical Origins of Ignorance of Embodiment in Modern Philosophy,” investigates the foundations of the mindbody dichotomy and the widespread neglect of embodiment’s importance within contemporary philosophical discourse. This chapter provides a valuable historical analysis of how this oversight became prevalent in philosophical thought. Chapter 2, “Embodiment in the Origins of Analytic and Continental Philosophies,” examines the significance of embodiment in the development of both analytic and continental philosophical traditions. By tracing the origins of these schools of thought, it uncovers the nuanced and impactful ways in which embodiment has been understood and expressed across different philosophical perspectives. Chapter 3, examining the divergence between analytic and continental philosophies regarding embodiment, presents a critical analysis of the distinct trajectories these two traditions have followed in addressing the concept. It explores the underlying factors that have led to the schism between them. Chapter 4, focusing on contemporary perspectives on embodiment and potential synthesis, provides an extensive overview of modern viewpoints from both analytical and continental schools of thought. This section investigates potential areas of convergence and synthesis, highlighting the opportunities to bridge the divide between these philosophical perspectives. Chapter 5, “Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Embodiment,” demonstrates how the idea of embodiment reaches well beyond academic philosophy and draws upon contemporary psychological theories, especially embodied cognition and affective neuroscience. These insights emphasize how the body shapes not just perception, but emotional experience and cognitive processes. Chapter 6, “Conclusion—Toward a Unified Understanding of Embodiment,” brings the discussion full circle by integrating historical, analytical, continental, and psychological viewpoints. This final chapter establishes a promising frame-work for reconciling abstract metaphysics with the concept of embodiment in phenomenology. This indepth study investigates the intricate relationship between abstract metaphysics, embodiment, and psychology, seeking to harmonize these seemingly disparate areas of philosophical inquiry. It prompts readers to reevaluate the importance of the body in shaping not only our perception of the world, but also our emotions, cognition, and behavior. By connecting abstract metaphysics with lived experience, including psychological insights, this research aims to enhance a more cohesive and integrated philosophical dialogue.
Components of the Book:
  • Chapter 1. Historical Origins of Ignorance of Embodiment in Modern Philosophy
    • 1.1. Introduction
    • 1.2. The Determinism of Nature
    • 1.3. Volitionalism
    • 1.4. The Epistemological Crisis of Modern Philosophy
    • 1.5. The Common Origin of Analytic and Continental Philosophies
  • Chapter 2.Embodiment in the Origins of Analytic and Continental Philosophies
    • 2.1. Introduction
    • 2.2. The Disregard of Bodies in the Early Analytic Philosophy
    • 2.3. Formation of Modern Logic
    • 2.4. The Movement Inspired by Russell
    • 2.5. Behaviorism
    • 2.6. Body in Husserl's Philosophy
    • 2.7. Final Words
  • Chapter 3.Analyzing the Divergence of Analytic and Continental Philosophies on Embodiment
    • 3.1. Introduction
    • 3.2. Ludwig Wittgenstein: Language, Meaning, and Embodied Practices
    • 3.3. Continental Philosophy and Embodiment
    • 3.4. Points of Convergence and Divergence
    • 3.5. Impact and Relevance of the Divide
    • 3.6. Analytic Philosophy’s Influence on Cognitive Science and Neuroscience
    • 3.7. Continental Philosophy’s Impact on the Philosophy of Mind
  • Chapter 4. Contemporary Perspectives on Embodiment and Possible Synthesis
    • 4.1. Introduction
    • 4.2. Contemporary Analytic Philosophy: Andy Clark and Extended Mind Theory
    • 4.3. The Metamorphosis of Analytic Philosophy
    • 4.4. Andy Clark: A Trailblazer in the Extended Mind
    • 4.5. The Extended Mind in Practice
    • 4.6. Cognitive Science and Neuroscience
    • 4.7. Contemporary Continental Philosophy
    • 4.8. Implications for Psychology and Artificial Intelligence
    • 4.9. Embodied Ethics: A Holistic Perspective
    • 4.10. Practical Applications and Implications
    • 4.11. Phenomenological Cognitive Science: Bridging Analytic and Continental Philosophies
    • 4.12. Dialogues and Collaborations
    • 4.13. An Evolving Landscape of Philosophy
  • Chapter 5.Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Embodiment
    • 5.1. Introduction
    • 5.2. Neuroscientific Findings: Exploring the Neural Basis of Embodiment
    • 5.3. Psychological Studies: Unveiling the Complex Relationship between Body and Mind
    • 5.4. Cognitive Science and AI: Bridging the Gap between Mind and Machine
    • 5.5. Clinical Applications: Embodiment in Healing and Rehabilitation
  • Chapter 6. Conclusion—Toward a Unified Understanding of Embodiment
    • 6.1. Introduction
    • 6.2. Diverse Approaches and Integration
    • 6.3. The Role of Emerging Theories
    • 6.4. Future Research and Questions
  • References
Readership: Students, academics, teachers, and other people attending or interested in Psychology.
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Chapter 1. Historical Origins of Ignorance of Embodiment in Modern Philosophy
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (235 KB)
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Chapter 2.Embodiment in the Origins of Analytic and Continental Philosophies
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (436 KB)
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Chapter 3.Analyzing the Divergence of Analytic and Continental Philosophies on Embodiment
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (205 KB)
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Chapter 4. Contemporary Perspectives on Embodiment and Possible Synthesis
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (255 KB)
137
Chapter 5.Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Embodiment
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (287 KB)
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Chapter 6. Conclusion—Toward a Unified Understanding of Embodiment
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (180 KB)
181
References
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
PDF (260 KB)
Dr. Ellie Shirvani
An interdisciplinary academic and researcher based in Berlin, Germany. She holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy of Mind and Education from the Technical University of Berlin. She currently teaches across several universities in Germany, including Arden University and HMKW University of Applied Sciences, in the Department of Psychology.

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