The Search for Neural Correlates of Consciousness

Abstract

Abstract The science of consciousness begins with the search for the neural correlates of consciousness. I explain this notion and give examples of research in the field. I then discuss how different conceptions of consciousness may influence the search for the neural correlates. This includes the distinctions between access and phenomenal consciousness, and between conscious states and unified conscious fields, as well as phenomenological conceptions. Finally, I discuss what finding the neural correlates may imply for the metaphysics of consciousness, in particular for the theory that conscious states are identical to brain states.