The Knower Centred Model of Consciousness (KCM): A Typed Ontology and Empirical Research Framework
PhilPapers (PhilPapers Foundation) January 1, 2026 DOI: 10.17605/osf.io/26w7m (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA new framework called the Knower Centred Model (KCM) distinguishes three components: the Knower, the act of Knowing, and the Known. It proposes a typed ontology and an empirical research program aimed at studying consciousness without relying solely on reductionist approaches. The work provides a conceptual structure for investigating consciousness from a perspective that centers the knower rather than reducing experience to physical processes alone.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Consciousness Ontology Empirical research Reductionism Perspective graphical |
| Key finding | Proposes that consciousness can be modeled through a tripartite ontology of Knower, Knowing, and Known, offering an empirical research framework beyond reductionist approaches. |
Abstract
This project hosts the preprint and materials for the paper "The Knower Centred Model of Consciousness (KCM): A Typed Ontology and Empirical Research Framework." The work introduces a typed ontology distinguishing Knower (K), Knowing (N), and Known (C), and outlines an empirical research program for investigating consciousness beyond reductionist models.