The Concept of Mind (book)

"The Concept of Mind," by Gilbert Ryle, challenges the traditional view that the mind is a separate, non-physical thing. Instead, Ryle argues that mental states and processes are not hidden inside the brain but are best understood as behaviors and dispositions—kind of like ways of acting or responding. He critiques the "ghost in the machine" idea, emphasizing that mental concepts are part of our observable actions and language. This perspective encourages us to see the mind as a pattern of activities rather than an inner, mysterious substance, making the study of mind more about behavior and context.