Philosophy For Our Times Consciousness beyond the brain | Rupert Sheldrake
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Mar 11, 2025 
Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist known for his pioneering research on consciousness and morphic resonance, dives into the intriguing nature of consciousness beyond the brain. He explores theories like panpsychism, suggesting that consciousness could be inherent in all matter. Sheldrake probes the complexities of visual perception, including the concept of extramission and scopasthesia—the eerie sensation of being watched. His innovative research initiative also investigates animal behavior and awareness, challenging listeners to rethink their understanding of consciousness in a cosmic context.
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Location of Consciousness
- There are two theories about consciousness: it's all inside your head, or it extends outwards.
- Your image of something is either a virtual reality display in your brain or projected out to where it seems to be.
The Hard Problem of Consciousness
- Materialism/physicalism suggests the universe is made of unconscious matter and consciousness emerged within brains.
- This creates the “hard problem”: if everything is unconscious, how are we conscious?
Panpsychism
- Panpsychism proposes a solution to the hard problem: consciousness exists in varying degrees within all matter.
- This shifts the debate about consciousness from a cerebrocentric view to a broader perspective.