Mind-brain identity theorists answer the question posed by the problem of other minds (i.e., do other people have mental states?) by which of the following claims?
A) No, they don't, since we cannot acquire knowledge of mental states.
B) No, they don't, since we have not acquired knowledge of the brain.
C) Yes, they do, if they have mental states like yours.
D) Yes, they do, if they have brains like yours.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mind-brain identity theorists argue that mental states can be reduced to brain states, so if someone has a brain like yours (i.e., the same neurophysiological makeup), then they have mental states like yours. Therefore, the problem of other minds does not pose a significant challenge to mind-brain identity theory. Choice A is incorrect because mind-brain identity theorists do believe that we can acquire knowledge of mental states through observation of behavior and brain activity. Choice B is incorrect because mind-brain identity theory holds that mental states are identical to brain states, so knowledge of the brain is crucial to understanding mental states. Choice C is also incorrect because mind-brain identity theory posits that mental states are reducible to brain states, so it would not matter if other people have mental states exactly like ours.

Mind-Brain Identity Theorists Answer the Question Posed by the Problem