Epiphenomenalism holds that mental states are caused by physical states but have no causal power themselves—consciousness is a byproduct that does nothing. This resolves how mental and physical can seem distinct while maintaining physical causal closure. But it makes mysterious why evolution would produce consciousness if it has no effects; natural selection favors traits with consequences. Epiphenomenalists respond that consciousness might be an inevitable byproduct of certain brain processes, selected for their functional roles rather than their conscious aspects.
It can be inferred from the text that
natural selection only favors traits that produce consciousness
all philosophers reject epiphenomenalism
consciousness definitely has no evolutionary explanation
theories in philosophy of mind may need to address evolutionary considerations to be fully plausible
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Epiphenomenalism must address why consciousness would evolve.
- Context clues: Evolutionary challenge is raised; epiphenomenalists offer an evolutionary response.
- Meaning: Evolutionary plausibility is relevant to mind theories.
- Verify: The byproduct response shows the need to engage with evolution.
đź’ˇ Strategy: When a theory must address an objection to be plausible, infer that objection's domain is relevant.
Choice A is incorrect because selection favors "traits with consequences," which may coincidentally produce consciousness. Choice B is incorrect because the passage explains and defends the view. Choice C is incorrect because byproduct explanations provide evolutionary accounts.