A Game of Perspectives: An MRI-Based Analysis of Implicit Mind-Brain Models in Schizophrenia

Abstract

Our exploration of schizophrenia encompassed a multi-dimensional analysis from three distinct perspectives: research, philosophy, and fieldwork. A central focus of our investigation delved into the intricate relationship between the brain and the mind, with particular attention to the enigmatic explanatory gap that has long challenged our comprehension. Within the realm of research, a prevailing paradigm often implies a model in which the mind emerges as a product of the brain. This prevailing model, alongside the disjointed nature of these three perspectives—research, philosophy, and fieldwork—operating in relative isolation, underscores a critical issue. To transcend these constraints and to advance our understanding of schizophrenia, the brain-mind interaction, and the well-being of patients, we advocate resolutely for a holistic approach. Such an approach harmonizes the biological, social, and psychological dimensions of this complex condition, fostering personalized care strategies tailored to individual clinical profiles while addressing the broader needs of patients, including facets of identity, meaning, and resilience. In essence, our analysis underscores the imperative of unifying these distinct realms of inquiry, emphasizing that a holistic perspective holds the key to not only bridging the persistent gap between the brain and the mind but also to vastly improving the quality of care and support for individuals grappling with schizophrenia, thereby revolutionizing the landscape of mental healthcare.