On the correlation/constitution distinction problem (and other hard problems) in the scientific study of consciousness.
Acta Neuropsychiatrica June 1, 2007 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5215.2007.00207.x (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Philosophy of mind |
| Citations | 74 |
| Key points | Argues that the correlation/constitution distinction presents a hard problem in the scientific study of phenomenal consciousness, and that multiple hard problems exist beyond the traditional 'hard problem'. |
Abstract
In the past decade, much has been written about 'the hard problem' of consciousness in the philosophy of mind. However, a separate hard problem faces the scientific study of consciousness. The problem arises when distinguishing the neural correlates of consciousness (NCC) and the neural constitution of consciousness. Here, I explain this correlation/constitution distinction and the problem it poses for a science of phenomenal consciousness. I also discuss potential objections to the problem, outline further hard problems in the scientific study of phenomenal consciousness and consider the ontological implications of these epistemological issues. Scientific and philosophic analysis and discussion are presented. The correlation/constitution distinction does indeed present a hard problem in the scientific study of phenomenal consciousness. Refinement of the 'NCC' acronym is proposed so that this distinction may at least be acknowledged in the literature. Furthermore, in addition to the problem posed by this distinction and to 'the hard problem', the scientific study of phenomenal consciousness also faces several other hard problems. In light of the multiple hard problems, it is concluded that scientists and philosophers of consciousness ought to (i) address, analyze and discuss the problems in the hope of discovering their solution or dissolution and (ii) consider the implications of some or all of them being intractable. With respect to the latter, it is argued that ultimate epistemic limits in the study of phenomenal consciousness pose no threat to physicalist or materialist ontologies but do inform our understanding of consciousness and its place in nature.
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Citations in the library
Cited by 30
- Are the Neural Correlates of Consciousness in the Front or in the Back of the Cerebral Cortex? Clinical and Neuroimaging Evidence Journal of Neuroscience October 4, 2017
- Predictive processing as a systematic basis for identifying the neural correlates of consciousness Philosophy and the Mind Sciences December 30, 2020
- Explanation in the science of consciousness: From the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs) to the difference makers of consciousness (DMCs) Philosophy and the Mind Sciences December 30, 2020
- The status of consciousness in nature Advances in Consciousness Research June 17, 2015
- Closing in on the constitution of consciousness. Frontiers in Psychology 2014
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