The problem of self in John R. Searle's theory of consciousness

ABSTRACT This study addresses the "Self Problem" through John R. Searle's Theory of Consciousness. The point that distinguishes John Searle's theory of consciousness from other theories of consciousness is that he evaluates consciousness as a biological structure. This approach, which Searle calls biological naturalism, causes him to present a different attitude from dualist and monist approaches. The aim of this study is to determine the philosophical basis of the idea of self that Searle put forward in line with his theory of consciousness and to reveal the points where it differs from other theories. In this context, studies that we can trace back to Ancient Greek thought in the historical process began to take shape with Descartes' systematic treatment in the seventeenth century. Many important philosophers who followed continued to discuss the subject on opposite or same grounds. Searle, a contemporary philosopher, developed various arguments while shaping his theory of consciousness by taking into account the views of thinkers who contributed to the formation and development of this field on consciousness and selfhood. Searle: It evaluates the views of Descartes, Hume, Kant, Locke and contemporary philosophers Dennett, Chruchland, Nagel and many more. Searle's problem of consciousness and self will be discussed and her thought developed in line with biological naturalism, outside of traditional understanding, will be discussed. Keywords: Searle, Consciousness, Self- Conscousness, Subjectivity, Body, Soul, Biological Naturalism, Dualism, Monism