Consciousness: mapping the theoretical landscape
1The Psychology Dept, King Alfred's College, Sparkford Road, Winchester, SO22 4NR. tel: +44 1962 827455 fax: +44 1962 827437, Hampshire, UK
Trends in Cognitive Sciences
|October 12, 2000
Summary
Investigating consciousness, this study contrasts information processing theories in cognitive neurosciences. It suggests complementing the search for neural correlates with computational correlates of consciousness.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Recent surge in interest regarding the nature of consciousness within cognitive neurosciences.
- Prevalence of theories explaining consciousness through brain's information processing mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey and contrast existing information processing models of consciousness.
- To delineate various notions of consciousness that these models aim to explain.
- To map the conceptual landscape of how theories explain consciousness.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis and comparison of prominent consciousness theories.
- Categorization of theories based on their explanatory approaches.
- Situating representative models within a defined conceptual framework.
Main Results:
- Identification of diverse theoretical approaches to consciousness.
- Clarification of the specific aspects of consciousness addressed by different models.
- A conceptual landscape illustrating the relationships between theories.
Conclusions:
- Theories of consciousness predominantly focus on information processing.
- A comprehensive understanding requires considering multiple facets of consciousness.
- Future research should integrate the search for neural and computational correlates of consciousness.
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