<P> The mind--body problem is a philosophical problem concerning the relationship between the human mind and body, although it can also concern animal minds, if any, and animal bodies . It is distinct from the question of how mind and body can causally interact, since that question presupposes an interactionist account of mind - body relations . This question arises when mind and body are considered as distinct, based on the premise that the mind and the body are fundamentally different in nature . </P> <P> The problem was addressed by René Descartes in the 17th century, resulting in Cartesian dualism, and by pre-Aristotelian philosophers, in Avicennian philosophy, and in earlier Asian traditions . A variety of approaches have been proposed . Most are either dualist or monist . Dualism maintains a rigid distinction between the realms of mind and matter . Monism maintains that there is only one unifying reality, substance or essence in terms of which everything can be explained . </P>

What is the mind body problem in psychology