Episode #181 - What if consciousness is an illusion?
What if consciousness is an illusion?
Key Takeaways:
Dichotomy of Consciousness:
Access Consciousness: Involves explainable aspects such as memory and information processing.
Phenomenal Consciousness: Concerns the subjective experience underlying conscious thought. Raises the question of whether it requires a separate explanation or if it's an intersection of explainable components.
Role of Metaphors in Understanding Consciousness:
Susan Blackmore highlights how everyday metaphors, like the 'Cartesian theater', derived from Descartes' dualism, impact our perception of consciousness by suggesting a separation between mind and body.
Illusionism Perspective on Consciousness:
Proposes that phenomenal consciousness is an illusion created by brain processes. This view likens our understanding of consciousness to a computer's user interface, which doesn’t delve into the underlying complexities.
Critiques and Alternative Views:
Massimo Pigliucci critiques illusionism, arguing that labeling consciousness as an illusion due to incomplete understanding is an oversimplification. He emphasizes the usefulness of different levels of understanding (neurobiological, psychological) for various purposes.
Recommended Reading:
Consciousness: An Introduction - Susan Blackmore (2011)
A comprehensive exploration of consciousness, combining current research with philosophical discourse.
Consciousness Explained - Daniel C. Dennett (1991)
A revolutionary work challenging traditional views of consciousness, proposing a new model based on neuroscience and psychology.
See the full transcript here.
Thank you to everyone who makes this podcast a possibility in the future.
I could never do this without your support! :)
