Consciousness: a neural capacity for objectivity, especially pronounced in humans

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• Consciousness is often defined as subjective experience or object perception.
• Existing definitions may overlook a key adaptive brain function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose that consciousness is fundamentally the brain's capacity to generate states of objectivity.
• To explore the neural and motivational mechanisms underlying objectivity.
• To link this capacity to other psychological properties and evolutionary behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical analysis integrating neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and evolutionary theory.
• Examination of sensorimotor networks, motivational systems, and exploratory behaviors.
• Conceptualization of "states of objectivity" and their phenomenal characteristics.

Main Results:

• Consciousness as objectivity relies on sensorimotor networks for internal object representation and expectancies.
• Motivational and motor mechanisms supporting exploration, play, and care contribute to objectivity.
• Objectivity involves the experience of perceiving the world as it is, free from subjective bias.

Conclusions:

• The brain's capacity for objectivity may be a foundational element for intelligence, conscience, and aesthetic experience.
• This capacity is linked to crucial human evolutionary behaviors like tool making, cooperation, and art.
• Misunderstanding consciousness as solely subjective experience or opposing it to "unconscious" patterns hinders a complete understanding.