Abstract

The purpose of the following critical analysis is to deal with several philosophical approaches to the position of mind in its two senses. The starting point of this analysis is the systematic question whether mind in either of the two senses of the term is derivable, that is to say whether it can be derived from any source exterior to itself; or whether it has to be assumed as an independent factor or activity. The two main suggestions as to the exterior realm from which mind can be derived are nature or human history. The critical outcome of this analysis amounts to a negative assessment of the irreducibility of consciousness and spirit to any exterior fact. This outcome is meant to serve as a negative prolegomena to a theory of consciousness and spirit which the present author hopes to explore independently.