The neural correlates of consciousness: Causes, confounds and constituents

Abstract

This chapter develops a framework for addressing the neural correlates of consciousness. We begin by distinguishing the kinds of neural correlates that are of central interest to the science of consciousness (what we call ‘NCCs’) from the kinds of neural correlates that are more peripheral to consciousness science and which are typically regarded as confounds from the perspective of consciousness research. We also examine various aspects of the NCCs, arguing that the notion involves complexities that have often been overlooked in the literature. We then consider various reasons for placing NCCs at the center of consciousness research, before considering a number of methodological challenges faced by consciousness science in attempting to distinguish the NCCs from neural correlates of various other types.