The Physical Basis of Mind Being the Second Series of Problems of Life and Mind.

"The Physical Basis of Mind" by George Henry Lewes is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the intricate relationship between life, the mind, and their biological foundations, aiming to clarify the principles that underlie the functioning of both mental and organic phenomena. It addresses the complex interplay between physical conditions and psychological functions, offering a framework that integrates biological understanding into psychological inquiry. At the start of the book, Lewes introduces the concept that the human mind, as conceived by scientists, is tightly interwoven with the organic life of the individual, emphasizing that every mental event has a basis in the vital functions of the organism. He argues for a twofold analysis of mind: one part rooted in individual biological conditions and the other shaped by social factors. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of vital processes, the nervous system, and the connections between the physical and mental realms, suggesting that knowledge of physiology is indispensable for psychologists seeking to understand the nature of consciousness and thought. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George Henry Lewes was an English philosopher and critic of literature and theatre. He was also an amateur physiologist. American feminist Margaret Fuller called Lewes a "witty, French, flippant sort of man". He became part of the mid-Victorian ferment of ideas which encouraged discussion of Darwinism, positivism, and religious skepticism. However, he is perhaps best known today for having openly lived with Mary Ann Evans, who wrote under the pen name George Eliot, as soulmates whose lives and writings were enriched by their relationship, though they never married each other.