Mind-Body Dualism to Brain and Behavior

• René Descartes (17th C) espoused the theory of the mind-body dualism (Cartesian dualism), wherein the mind (soul) was said to be completely separate from the body.
• Current research and approaches show the connection between mind and body and that newer treatments will develop from a better understanding of both the biological and psychological (Hunt 1994).
• The US Congress stated that the 1990s would be “The Decade of the Brain,” with increased focus and research in the areas of neurobiology, genetics, and biological markers.
• The Decade of Behavior is a “multidisciplinary” initiative that was launched by the American Psychological Association (APA [2000-2010]), focusing on the behavioral and social sciences, trying to address major challenges facing the US today in health, safety, education, prosperity, and democracy.