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The multiple generator hypothesis of consciousness.

Asger Kirkeby-Hinrup1,2, Sascha B Fink3, Morten S Overgaard2,4

  • 1Department of Philosophy, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.

Neuroscience of Consciousness
|September 26, 2025
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Multiple hypotheses on the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs) may all be correct. The new multiple generator hypothesis (MGH) suggests different principles and generators can explain consciousness, offering new research directions.

Keywords:
consciousnessempirical evidencemethodologynccneural correlates of consciousnesstheories and models

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Philosophy of Mind
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Numerous competing hypotheses exist regarding the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs).
  • Current research often assumes only one hypothesis is correct, while others are erroneous.
  • This prevailing view overlooks the potential validity of multiple, coexisting theories.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a novel framework accommodating multiple, simultaneously valid NCC hypotheses.
  • To introduce the multiple generator hypothesis (MGH) as a means to reconcile competing theories.
  • To explore the implications of the MGH for the future of consciousness studies.

Main Methods:

  • Development of the multiple generator hypothesis (MGH).
  • Distinction between 'principles' (ways consciousness is generated) and 'generators' (physical implementations).
  • Conceptual analysis and explication of the MGH framework.

Main Results:

  • The MGH posits that different hypotheses may describe distinct aspects or implementations of consciousness.
  • Evidence supporting various NCC hypotheses can be genuinely indicative of consciousness.
  • The MGH provides a unified perspective on seemingly contradictory findings in consciousness research.

Conclusions:

  • The MGH offers a promising new perspective for interdisciplinary consciousness studies.
  • It suggests that multiple mechanisms may contribute to the generation of consciousness.
  • The hypothesis opens avenues for novel research questions and a more integrated understanding of NCCs.