The discussion delves into phenomenology as the study of consciousness structures from a first-person perspective. Scientists Michel and Alex highlight the importance of understanding subjective experience in scientific observations, emphasizing the impact of personal perceptions on scientific interpretations. They explore how phenomenology can resolve quantum mechanics paradoxes and contribute to the philosophy of mind.
The Blind Spot in Scientific Endeavors
The podcast examines the "blind spot" in scientific pursuits, where researchers often overlook the subjective aspect of their investigations. Michel and Alex discuss the significance of recognizing subjective experience in scientific endeavors, contrasting objective scientific methodologies with the need to acknowledge personal perceptions and experiences in research. They emphasize how neglecting this blind spot can lead to paradoxes and limitations in understanding phenomena.
The Shift in Explanation and Understanding
The conversation shifts towards the evolution of scientific explanation from Aristotelian essence-seeking to Newtonian mathematical laws. The concept of explanation transitions from causal mechanisms to probabilistic predictions in quantum mechanics. Alex reflects on the necessity and sufficiency approach in neurobiology, highlighting a quest for causality, understanding, and the nuanced interplay between mechanistic and descriptive approaches in science.
The Value of Phenomenology and Scientific Inquiry
Exploring the intersection of phenomenology and scientific inquiry, the podcast delves into the importance of embracing a variety of explanatory approaches. It emphasizes the need to appreciate different avenues for understanding complex phenomena beyond traditional scientific methods. By discussing the limitations of solely relying on scientific tools like explanations based on molecules for phenomena like love or depression, the episode advocates for a more comprehensive exploration of diverse explanatory frameworks.
Language, Experience, and Phenomenological Descriptions
The episode delves into the nuanced role of language in conveying subjective experiences and phenomenological descriptions. It discusses the function of language in bringing individuals back to their current experiences rather than distancing them, highlighting the unique approach of phenomenological language usage. Addressing the intricate relationship between language, subjective experience, and scientific objectivity, the podcast explores how language can serve as a tool for introspection and self-awareness in understanding human consciousness.
Michel Bitbol is Director of Research at CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique). Alex Gomez-Marin is a neuroscientist running his lab, The Behavior of Organisms Laboratory, at the Instituto de Neurociencias in Alicante. We discuss phenomenology as an alternative perspective on our scientific endeavors. Although we like to believe our science is objective and explains the reality of the world we inhabit, we can't escape the fact that all of our scientific knowledge comes through our perceptions and interpretations as conscious living beings. Michel has used phenomenology to resolve many of the paradoxes that quantum mechanics generates when it is understood as a description of reality, and more recently he has applied phenomenology to the philosophy of mind and consciousness. Alex is currently trying to apply the phenomenological approach to his research on brains and behavior. Much of our conversation revolves around how phenomenology and our "normal" scientific explorations can co-exist, including the study of minds, brains, and intelligence- our own and that of other organisms. We also discuss the "blind spot" of science, the history and practice of phenomenology, various kinds of explanation, the language we use to describe things, and more.
0:00 - Intro
4:32 - The Blind Spot
15:53 - Phenomenology and interpretation
22:51 - Personal stories: appreciating phenomenology
37:42 - Quantum physics example
47:16 - Scientific explanation vs. phenomenological description
59:39 - How can phenomenology and science complement each other?
1:08:22 - Neurophenomenology
1:17:34 - Use of language
1:25:46 - Mutual constraints
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