Final answer:
The functionalist theory of mind, which treats mental processes as brain functions, is not compatible with dualism, which posits a non-physical realm for the mind. Therefore, the statement 'The functionalist theory of mind is compatible with dualism' is false.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functionalist theory of mind posits that what we refer to as the 'mind' is really the collection of brain functions, comparing it to the operation of any biological organ performing its function. According to this view, the 'mind' is not an entity separate from the physical world but is instead the activity of thinking carried out by the brain. Therefore, functionalism is closely aligned with the concept of monism, which suggests that only one kind of substance exists.
On the other hand, dualism maintains that there are two distinct kinds of substances: the mind and the body (brain), which are thought to interact with each other. Given that functionalism argues against the existence of a non-physical mind and emphasizes a perspective that understands mental processes as brain activity and functions, it is not compatible with dualism, which posits a non-physical realm for the mind.
false