Purpose This paper aims to contribute to the formulation of a theory of consciousness based only on computational processes. In this manner, sound computational explanations of qualia and the “hard problem” of consciousness are provided in response to a lack of physical, chemical and psychological explanations. Design/methodology/approach The study analyses the little that can be objectively...
PurposeTo point out the relevance of Heinz von Foerster's work to modern embodied cognitive science and artifical intelligence research.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses (a) von Foerster's contributions to understanding the limitations of the computer metaphor which has long dominated cognitive science, and (b) his theories concerning how reality is constructed in organizationally...
This systems model of dreaming consciousness examines the self‐organizing properties of the sleeping brain, offering a step towards reconciling brain‐based and content‐based attempts to understand the nature of dreaming. The brain can be understood as a complex self‐organizing system that, in dreaming, responds to subtle influences such as residual feelings and memories. The...
In recent years, evidence has accumulated that there are four distinct states of consciousness under normal conditions; in addition to the three commonly experienced states of wakefulness, sleep, and dreaming, there is a fourth state achieved by various Eastern meditation techniques. A model of man is discussed that could account for these states. This model, inspired by the concepts of...