Consciousness: criteria and possible mechanisms

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• Consciousness is defined by objective (abstract knowledge) and subjective ('ego' feeling) criteria.
• A brain mechanism synthesizes sensory, memory, and emotional information to generate self-awareness and communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mechanism underlying human consciousness.
• To connect the understanding of consciousness mechanisms with its vital sense, echoing Pavlov's insights.

Main Methods:

• Information synthesis within brain structures.
• Analysis of dynamic cortical structures (interaction foci) in perception and thinking.
• Examination of realization linked to communication and verbal zones.

Main Results:

• The synthesis of diverse information types leads to the emergence of the 'ego' sense and communicable messages.
• Dynamic cortical structures, particularly in associative and verbal areas, are crucial for information processing and realization.
• Localization of interaction foci shifts from projectional cortex (perception) to associative areas (thinking) and verbal zones (realization).

Conclusions:

• The proposed brain mechanism provides a framework for understanding the dual criteria of consciousness.
• Revealing the mechanism of consciousness is essential for understanding its vital significance.
• This research aligns with historical scientific quests to understand the essence of human consciousness.