(2024-02-14, 04:59 PM)nbtruthman Wrote: I can only repeat my challenge, which you have not yet engaged with: "Sorry, but (then) you still need to identify what functions the bulk of the neurological structures of the brain are accomplishing, if it isn't enabling this interactional interface." Whatever these so far unidentified functions are, they must be very important since they are so metabolically costly. And I add that the only other function for this vastly complex system that comes to mind would presumably be to actually generate consciousness, which explanation we apparently agree is an untenable materialist reductionist position.
In the absence of an adequate response to this issue I can only suggest that it is perhaps a standoff where the preponderance of physical evidence points to my position, and (perhaps), basic physical thermodynamical theory claims such an interactional mechanism is impossible. I could only suggest that there may be only two outcomes on this issue: either somehow the neurophysiological data is false (that seems impossible since it is based on countless research studies covering fmri scanning, observed effects of various diseases, and many other types of research), or there somehow is a special case exception to the thermodynamic considerations in the special case of spirit embodiment. After all, we have no sure knowledge of what "laws" govern the spiritual realm, but we do know for sure that that it exists from the extensive evidence of many kinds of paranormal phenomena.
Also, there is no response to my observations regarding my presented evidence that the mental faculties of abstract thought and logic must be solely part of the immaterial soul rather than spirit functions mirrored by and interfaced with by the brain.m
As you suggest, perhaps we should allow the debate regarding neurophysical transmission to a non-physical substance to reach a standoff. I have presented my arguments primarily from the perspective of physics, while you have offered yours mainly from the standpoint of neuroscience. I am not well-versed in neuroscience and would prefer not to engage in a discussion about the evolutionary purpose of various brain structures.