There can be more to consciousness research than theory testing.
Morten Overgaard, Peter Fazekas, Asger Kirkeby-Hinrup, Kristian Sandberg, Wanja Wiese
Communications Psychology November 26, 2025 DOI: 10.1038/s44271-025-00357-9 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that consciousness research should move away from grand theories toward construct-based, data-driven, and iterative approaches to build cumulative knowledge. |
Abstract
Consciousness research has long been dominated by competing grand theories, yet consensus remains elusive. We propose shifting focus toward construct-based, data-driven, and iterative approaches that identify the empirical building blocks of conscious experience and provide a more cumulative, integrative path forward for the field.