Jakob Hohwy

The Search for Neural Correlates of Consciousness

Philosophy Compass May 1, 2007 Jakob Hohwy

The search for the neural correlates of consciousness (NCC) is the starting point for the science of consciousness. This work explains the concept of NCC and provides examples of related research. It then examines how different conceptions of consciousness—such as the distinction between access and phenomenal consciousness, the difference between individual conscious states and a unified conscious field, and phenomenological approaches—affect the search for NCC. Finally, it considers what discovering the NCC might imply for the metaphysics of consciousness, especially the theory that conscious states are identical to brain states.