10. Modification and Enhancement of Consciousness
Human and Machine Consciousness March 7, 2018 DOI: 10.11647/obp.0107.10 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that a reliable theory of consciousness could enable the deliberate modification of conscious experience by identifying and realizing the physical brain state linked to a desired conscious state, though this remains technologically distant. |
Abstract
When we have developed a reliable theory of consciousness, we will be able to use it to modify and enhance our consciousness. For example, we could change the shape of our conscious body or increase our level of consciousness. Chapter 10 explains how we can use a theory of consciousness to identify the physical state that is linked to a desired conscious state. If we could realize this physical state in our brains, we would experience the desired conscious state. It will be many years before this will become technologically possible.