Closer To Truth
What Makes Brains Conscious?
Oct 11, 2023
Neuroscientists, neurologists, and cognitive scientists explore the nature of consciousness and its relationship with the brain. They discuss the role of the thalamus, the mind-body problem, brain lesions, social behavior, and the limitations of brain science in understanding subjective experience.
26:33
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Quick takeaways
- Consciousness is a continuum of nodes in the brain, allowing different organisms, including animals, to have varying levels of consciousness.
- Emotions play a crucial role in consciousness, as they contribute to brain arousal and help integrate cognitive awareness with memory.
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Consciousness as a Continuum of Nodes
Consciousness is believed to be an integral part of complex nervous systems in action. It is not limited to humans, but rather is a part of the overall brain experience. Consciousness is viewed as a continuum of nodes, which are specific input-output experiences in time. For example, observations of animals grazing in the Serengeti suggest that consciousness exists at a lower level, allowing them to examine options and select an option when a part of the brain called the core or reticular core is disturbed. Consciousness is seen as an inalienable part of the brain, with activity occurring at multiple levels.
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