Romansh: You did not answer my point David. If we can explain a supposed emergent phenomenon is it still emergent? > > I didn't realize that was your point. I don't think we can curently explain properties we call emergent. That is why we use that term. Consciousness is non-material, but arises from material matter. The same for the condition of life. It arises from biochemisty, but it is not found in the parts.-You still did not answer my question David.-You say consciousness and life are nonmaterial. I will have to take your word for it, for the material and life/consciousness affect one another. Whether they exist in the dualistic sense the way you imply (or not) is irrelevant for me. They respond in a cause and effect way.