What does the term 'epiphenomena' refer to in Hobbes' philosophy?

In Hobbes' philosophy, the term 'epiphenomena' refers specifically to mental events that arise as by-products of physical processes. This concept reflects Hobbes' materialistic view that all mental phenomena can be explained in terms of bodily and neurological processes. He theorized that thoughts and feelings do not exist independently but emerge as a result of physical interactions in the brain and body.

This understanding aligns with Hobbes' broader perspective on human behavior, emphasizing a deterministic view of psychology where physical states govern mental states. Therefore, recognizing mental events as epiphenomena underscores the interplay between the physical and the mental, highlighting that while our thoughts may feel significant or central to our experience, they are fundamentally secondary to the underlying physical realities.