The strength of weak integrated information theory
Pedro A. M. Mediano, Fernando E. Rosas, Daniel Bor, Anil K. Seth, Adam B. Barrett
Trends in Cognitive Sciences June 1, 2022 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2022.04.008 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Cognitive psychology Cognitive science |
| Citations | 109 |
| Key points | Argues that distinguishing strong IIT (consciousness identified with specific properties of integrated information maxima) from weak IIT (pragmatic hypotheses linking consciousness to broader measures of information dynamics) widens the theory's appeal and applicability. Contends that existing empirical findings are well explained by weak IIT without committing to all of strong IIT. |
Abstract
The integrated information theory of consciousness (IIT) is divisive: while some believe it provides an unprecedentedly powerful approach to address the 'hard problem', others dismiss it on grounds that it is untestable. We argue that the appeal and applicability of IIT can be greatly widened if we distinguish two flavours of the theory: strong IIT, which identifies consciousness with specific properties associated with maxima of integrated information; and weak IIT, which tests pragmatic hypotheses relating aspects of consciousness to broader measures of information dynamics. We review challenges for strong IIT, explain how existing empirical findings are well explained by weak IIT without needing to commit to the entirety of strong IIT, and discuss the outlook for both flavours of IIT.
Citations in the library
Cited by 45
- An integrative, multiscale view on neural theories of consciousness. Neuron May 15, 2024
- Unpacking the complexities of consciousness: Theories and reflections. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews March 1, 2025
- The nature of consciousness in anaesthesia BJA Open September 26, 2023
- Unravelling consciousness and brain function through the lens of time, space, and information Trends in Neurosciences May 31, 2024
- Consciousness science: where are we, where are we going, and what if we get there? Frontiers in Science October 30, 2025
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Cites 44
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