Dualism
Dualism is the philosophical belief that reality consists of both material and immaterial substances. Most famously articulated by René Descartes, dualism posits a clear distinction between the mind (non-physical) and the body (physical). Descartes’ assertion, “I think, therefore I am,” highlights the mind’s unique status apart from the physical world. Dualism continues to spark debate in contemporary consciousness studies, especially regarding how immaterial thoughts can interact with the material brain. This tension between mind and matter remains central to philosophical and scientific explorations of reality.