Question: There is a simple argument for mind being a material element: mind can be controlled with breath exercises, which are a material process. Are there more obvious arguments like this, for mind, but also for intelligence and false ego being material?
Answer by Romapada Swami: We derive conclusive knowledge from scriptures, whereas logic and argument are always inconclusive. We can easily understand, with a little introspection that mind, intelligence and false ego are all contaminated by matter and influenced by material circumstances. As the soul changes from one body to another, his mental disposition, intelligence and false conception of who he is – all change. The only unchanging entity is the soul himself, and he is spiritual. Krishna says in Bhagavad-gita that mind, intelligence and false-ego are His material energies, and the living entities are part of His superior energy (Bg 7.4-5). Lord Krishna also gives a detailed analysis of the distinction between matter and spirit in Chapter 2. On this scriptural basis, we can firmly conclude that mind, intelligence, false ego, etc. are all material.
