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The consciousness continuum: from "qualia" to "free will"
1UCSD Psychology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, 92093-0109, USA. gmandler@ucsd.edu
Psychological Research
|April 28, 2005
Summary
This study proposes a consciousness continuum, ranging from basic sensations to complex thoughts and actions. It
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Current models of consciousness often lack a clear framework for diverse mental phenomena.
- Metaphysical concepts like qualia and free will remain ill-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a unified framework for understanding consciousness.
- To define consciousness as a continuum based on intention and cognitive complexity.
- To offer a scientific alternative to vague philosophical concepts.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of consciousness phenomena.
- Defining a continuum based on two key factors: intention and cognitive complexity.
- Categorizing mental contents along this proposed continuum.
Main Results:
- Consciousness can be mapped onto a continuum from simple sensory input to complex volitional acts.
- The continuum is characterized by the presence/absence of intention and the degree of cognitive construction.
- This framework accommodates phenomena like spontaneous thoughts, unintended perceptions, and memory retrieval.
Conclusions:
- The proposed consciousness continuum offers a structured approach to studying subjective experience.
- It provides a scientific basis for understanding phenomena previously attributed to vague concepts.
- This framework facilitates empirical investigation into the nature of consciousness.
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