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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
14:38
Creating Objects and Object Categories for Studying Perception and Perceptual Learning
Published on: November 2, 2012
Visual perception and phenomenal consciousness
Behavioural Brain Research
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Consciousness may be exclusive to self-distinguishing organisms. Investigating visual processing and blindsight in monkeys reveals distinct stages of phenomenal and accessible consciousness, crucial for thought and planning.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- The nature and basis of consciousness remain debated.
- Distinguishing information processing from conscious representation is key.
- Understanding consciousness requires addressing who has it, its neural basis, and its function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the criteria for consciousness in organisms.
- To identify the neuronal underpinnings of conscious representation.
- To elucidate the functional role of consciousness.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of visual processing stages and functional losses after lesions.
- Utilizing blindsight as a model for studying phenomenal vision.
- Employing animal models (monkeys) with specific cortical removals.
Main Results:
- Proposed consciousness is linked to self-non-self discrimination and modifiable behavior.
- Differentiated reflexive, phenomenal, and consciously accessible visual processing stages.
- Demonstrated that striate cortex removal in monkeys mimics blindsight, impacting phenomenal vision.
Conclusions:
- Phenomenal and consciously accessible vision are distinct aspects of consciousness.
- Loss of phenomenal vision may lead to loss of conscious accessibility.
- Consciousness facilitates retrieval and manipulation of information for thinking and planning.
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01:24Vision
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01:28Perception
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01:26Visual System
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01:21Gestalt Principles of Perception
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01:12Perceptual Constancy
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01:20Parallel Processing
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