Why Can't We Describe Our Conscious Experiences? An Information Theoretic Attractor Dynamics Perspective of Ineffability

Explore a thought-provoking conference talk that delves into the fascinating paradox of conscious experiences being simultaneously rich in detail yet difficult to fully describe or recall. Learn about the information theoretic dynamical systems perspective that addresses both the richness and ineffability of consciousness, examining how attractor dynamics in working memory affect our ability to recall experiences, why language's discrete symbolic nature falls short in describing complex experiences, and how cognitive similarities between individuals influence their ability to communicate experiences. Discover a physicalist framework that tackles the longstanding philosophical problem of ineffability and the explanatory gap between consciousness and physical processes, offering insights into why qualitative experiences remain so challenging to articulate despite their vivid nature.