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A natural science approach to consciousness
Edwin R Lewis1, Ronald J Macgregor
1Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California at Berkeley, CA 94720-1770, USA. lewis@eecs.berkeley.edu
Journal of Integrative Neuroscience
|July 1, 2010
Summary
This study explores consciousness by developing new descriptive models based on natural science and cognitive science. It proposes that consciousness involves limited free will and a two-way energy exchange between mental and physical brain realms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Natural science has limitations in explaining consciousness.
- Cognitive science offers insights into mental processes.
- Consciousness is presumed to have evolved via natural selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To construct alternative descriptive models of consciousness.
- To identify models consistent with natural selection and limited free will.
- To propose a physical basis for the mind-brain interaction.
Main Methods:
- Synthesizing recent literature in cognitive science.
- Applying principles of natural selection to consciousness models.
- Developing analogies for mental-physical energy exchange.
Main Results:
- Identified a subset of consciousness models with limited free will (free won't).
- Argued for a two-way energy exchange between mental and physical realms.
- Proposed a generic resonator model for consciousness, with astroglial-pyramidal cells and electromagnetic fields as candidates.
Conclusions:
- Consciousness may involve a physical energy exchange.
- The proposed models offer a framework for understanding consciousness.
- Further research is needed to identify consciousness in other beings and machines.
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