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The functional contributions of consciousness.
1York University, (1) 636 Euclid Ave., Toronto, Ontario M6G 2T5, Canada.
Consciousness and Cognition
|August 13, 2022
Summary
Consciousness may not have one function but many. This study proposes a new framework to identify these diverse functional contributions of consciousness (FCCs), challenging existing theories.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Current theories of consciousness often assume a single functional role.
- Conscious processes are recognized as complex and supported by diverse neural mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a methodological framework for identifying the psychological functions of consciousness.
- To investigate whether consciousness offers a plurality of functional contributions (FCCs).
- To evaluate leading consciousness theories against the concept of functional pluralism.
Main Methods:
- Development of a general methodological framework to isolate psychological functions linked to conscious experience.
- Critical analysis of prominent theories including Global Workspace Theory, Higher Order Thought Theory, and Information Integration Theory.
Main Results:
- Leading theories of consciousness do not adequately account for functional pluralism.
- The proposed framework highlights the heterogeneity of functions associated with conscious experience.
Conclusions:
- Consciousness likely serves multiple distinct functional roles across different psychological domains.
- Existing theories of consciousness have limitations due to their failure to acknowledge functional pluralism.
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