Projects per year
Abstract
The science of consciousness is currently structured around the search for the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs). One of the alleged advantages of the NCC framework is its metaphysical neutrality—the fact that it begs no contested questions with respect to debates about the fundamental nature of consciousness. Here, we argue that even if the NCC framework is metaphysically neutral, it is structurally committed, for it presupposes a certain model—what we call the Lite-Brite model—of consciousness. This represents a serious liability for the NCC framework, for the plausibility of the Lite-Brite model is very much an open question, and the science of consciousness would be better served by a framework that does not presuppose it. Drawing on interventionist ideas in the philosophy of science, we suggest that the Difference-Maker framework can provide just such an alternative. Instead of searching for the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs), we ought to be searching for the difference makers of consciousness (DMCs).
Original language | English |
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Article number | 4 |
Number of pages | 20 |
Journal | PhiMiSci: Philosophy and the Mind Sciences |
Volume | 1 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2020 |
Keywords
- Consciousness
- Difference-making· Explanation
- Intervention
- NCCs
- Neural correlates
Projects
- 2 Finished
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The integration of perception and thought
Hohwy, J. (Primary Chief Investigator (PCI)), Bayne, T. (Chief Investigator (CI)) & Moran, R. (Chief Investigator (CI))
31/05/19 → 31/12/22
Project: Research
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Measuring the Mind: A Framework for Building a Consciousness Meter
Bayne, T. (Primary Chief Investigator (PCI))
ARC - Australian Research Council, Monash University
12/09/16 → 31/03/21
Project: Research