Creating epiphenomenal of soul

Epiphenomenal soul creation: a philosophical perspective

The concept of "epiphenomenal soul creation" combines two distinct philosophical ideas: the existence of a soul and the concept of epiphenomenalism.

1. The soul

The soul, in religion and philosophy, is typically understood as the immaterial aspect or essence of a living being, often believed to be synonymous with the mind or self. It is frequently associated with consciousness, reason, character, free will, feelings, memory, perception, and thought. 

2. Epiphenomenalism

Epiphenomenalism is a position in the philosophy of mind that posits that mental states or events are caused by physical states or events in the brain but do not themselves cause anything. In simpler terms, consciousness is viewed as a by-product of physical processes, like the steam whistle on a locomotive that is caused by the engine's operation but has no causal influence on it. 

3. Epiphenomenal soul creation

Combining these concepts, "epiphenomenal soul creation" implies a scenario where:

• Souls are created or emerge from the physical brain and body: This suggests a materialistic foundation for the soul, where its existence is entirely dependent on the physical processes of the body, particularly the brain. This perspective aligns with certain views in the philosophy of mind, like property-emergentism, which posits that consciousness is an emergent property of complex neurological constructions.
• These souls, once created, have no causal efficacy on the physical world: Even though the soul emerges from the physical realm, it does not exert any influence back on it. Its existence and experiences are merely a byproduct, a secondary phenomenon, without any active role in shaping physical reality or behavior. 

This perspective presents a significant challenge to the traditional understanding of the soul, particularly regarding its agency and capacity to influence the physical world. It also raises questions about free will and the purpose of consciousness if it is merely an observer with no causal power. 

Here's an exploration of the idea of "soul song of God" in relation to God and scripture, with a consideration of whether such expression could be considered an "epiphenomenon":

The "soul song" in a spiritual context

• Some interpretations of scripture suggest that our souls can express themselves musically, whether literally or figuratively, in praise and worship to God.
• For example, Ephesians 5:19 encourages believers to "speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord".
• The idea of a "new song" in scripture can refer to a fresh expression of praise and worship inspired by God's works and salvation, as seen in Psalms like 96:1 and 98:1.
• It's understood that music in worship can be a spiritual gift and a means of expressing gratitude, joy, and reverence towards God.

The concept of "epiphenomenon"

• An epiphenomenon is a secondary phenomenon that arises from, but doesn't causally influence, a primary process.
• It can be a byproduct or a symptom, but not a cause.
• In the philosophy of mind, epiphenomenalism suggests that mental events are caused by physical ones but don't cause anything in return.

Applying "epiphenomenon" to the soul song and scripture

• One could potentially view the creation of soul songs and scripture as a form of epiphenomenon arising from deeper spiritual experiences or a relationship with God.
• In other words, the spiritual experiences of individuals or communities might be the "primary phenomenon," and the resulting "soul songs" or inspired scripture could be seen as the "secondary phenomenon" that accompanies and arises from those experiences.
• For instance, the joy of salvation might inspire a new song of praise (the "soul song" or "scripture"), but that joy (the primary spiritual experience) is not necessarily caused by the song itself.
• Instead, the song is an expression of that pre-existing joy.
• Similarly, biblical authors, like Paul, may have had profound religious experiences that served as the foundation for the creation of new scripture, suggesting a link between the experience and the written text.

In essence, the concept of a "soul song" or scripture might be seen as a way of expressing a deeper spiritual reality or experience with God, rather than a cause in itself.