The readiness potential and the soul: what happens when you resect their seat in the brain?

Abstract

Almost five decades ago, John Eccles used neurophysiological studies suggesting that voluntary movement is preceded by activity in the supplementary motor area (SMA) to argue that mind and brain are separate entities. Half a decade later, the finding made by Benjamin Libet that SMA activity precedes conscious decision making would put the final nail in the coffin of this dualistic theory. Today, results of neurosurgical resections of the SMA demonstrate the futility of this debate, challenging the role of the Libet-study as an iconic symbol of the triumph of monism over dualism.