Integrated Information Theory and the Phenomenal Binding Problem: Challenges and Solutions in a Dynamic Framework

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Philosophy of Mind
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Consciousness theories must address the phenomenal binding problem: how micro-level information units form macro-level conscious experience.
• Current solutions to the binding problem are contested, necessitating further theoretical development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Integrated Information Theory (IIT) v4.0's metaphysical framework as a potential solution to the phenomenal binding problem.
• To identify and analyze the 'dynamic entity evolution problem' that arises when applying IIT to dynamic neural systems.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of IIT v4.0's core tenets regarding entity aggregation and existence.
• Examination of the implications of dynamic processes for IIT's proposed solutions to the binding problem.
• Identification of a dilemma concerning non-local transitions versus contiguous selves in evolving conscious entities.

Main Results:

• IIT's static solution, where entities aggregate from information units, faces challenges in dynamic biological neural networks.
• A dilemma emerges for IIT: reconciling non-local entity transitions with the concept of a contiguous self over time.
• Three potential resolutions to this dynamic entity evolution problem within the IIT framework are proposed.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying IIT's stance on the phenomenal binding problem, especially in dynamic contexts, is crucial for understanding and assessing its plausibility.
• This work contributes to the ongoing shift in IIT research from static to dynamic analyses of consciousness.
• Further theoretical and empirical research is needed to validate IIT's dynamic account of conscious entities.