Delve into the enduring mystery of consciousness in this thought-provoking World Science Festival panel discussion. Explore cutting-edge research on the neurobiological basis of consciousness, including brain imaging technologies and individual nerve cell studies. Discover insights from leading researchers on whether consciousness is unique to humans, if it exists beyond the brain, and the fundamental biochemical processes underlying the mind. Learn about the history of consciousness studies, the relationship between the brain and consciousness, and intriguing concepts like the "Jennifer Aniston brain cell." Examine questions about when consciousness begins, how it relates to sleep, and the ethical implications of understanding consciousness. Gain a deeper understanding of projects like Mindscope and integrated information theory, which aim to unravel the complexities of human awareness and cognition.
Overview
Syllabus
Terry Moran's Introduction
Participant Introductions
What is meant by Consciousness?
The history of Consciousness?
Is the brain a separate thing from consciousness?
Historically philosophers have failed to explain consciousness.
When are we first conscious?
The Jennifer Aniston Brain cell.
Is experience different from consciousness?
What do we now about the physical place that consciousness lives?
Donald Herbert wakes after 10 years.
when we sleep do we lose consciousness?
What is project Mindscope?
What is integrated information theory?
If we understand consciousness will the world be less interesting?
Are there any moral factors to understanding consciousness?
Taught by
World Science Festival
