Rethinking Consciousness in a Nonbinary Framework
Enhanced Cognition 2026 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-09952-5_4 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Cognitive neuroscience Continuum of awareness Dualism vs. monism Non-binary consciousness |
| Key points | Proposes that consciousness should be understood as a continuum rather than a binary state, drawing on evidence from various altered states and theoretical perspectives. |
Abstract
This chapter challenges the binary view of consciousness, proposing a nonbinary framework that sees consciousness as a continuum. Drawing from cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy, it explores states like dreaming, meditation, blindsight, and near-death experiences to illustrate the limitations of binary thinking. The discussion extends to artificial intelligence, questioning its potential for consciousness. Integrating insights from monist theories and altered states research, the chapter highlights the complexity of awareness beyond rigid categories. A nonbinary perspective offers a more nuanced understanding of selfhood, cognition, and consciousness with implications for philosophy, neuroscience, and AI research.