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N. Block

3 papers in the library · publishing 2017-2021

Papers

Does the Prefrontal Cortex Play an Essential Role in Consciousness? Insights from Intracranial Electrical Stimulation of the Human Brain

Journal of Neuroscience March 10, 2021 Omri Raccah, N. Block, K. Fox

A central debate in philosophy and neuroscience concerns whether prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity is essential for consciousness. This synthesis of research using intracranial electrical stimulation (iES) in humans shows that stimulating only certain prefrontal regions—the orbitofrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex—reliably alters conscious experience. In contrast, stimulating anterolateral prefrontal sites, often emphasized by higher-order and global workspace theories, rarely produces reportable changes in consciousness. The variety of iES-elicited effects (emotions, thoughts, olfactory and visual hallucinations) shows no clear relation to the immediate environment, challenging the idea that the PFC is the basis for conscious perception. The findings suggest a specific role for orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortices in supporting emotional aspects of conscious experience.

DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1141-20.2020 (opens in new tab) Full text (opens in new tab) Medicine Philosophy

Opportunities and challenges for a maturing science of consciousness

Nature Human Behaviour February 1, 2019 M. Michel, Diane M Beck, N. Block et al.

Advancing scientific research on consciousness is important for addressing clinical and ethical issues in neurology and mental health. To support this field, funding priorities must be set carefully, and challenges such as job creation and media misrepresentation need to be addressed.

DOI: 10.1038/s41562-019-0531-8 (opens in new tab) Full text (opens in new tab) Medicine Psychology

Does unconscious perception really exist? Continuing the ASSC20 debate

Neuroscience of Consciousness September 6, 2017 Megan A. K. Peters, Robert W. Kentridge, I. Phillips et al.

The authors present a symposium discussion on whether unconscious perception truly exists, highlighting disagreement on definitions and empirical methods for determining unconscious states. They argue that the controversy hinges on what is meant by key terms and how to measure unconsciousness. The piece is organized into four distinct contributions to reflect the range of ideas and evidence on this topic, aiming to foster consensus among consciousness researchers.

DOI: 10.1093/nc/nix015 (opens in new tab) Full text (opens in new tab) Psychology Medicine