10. Modification and Enhancement of Consciousness
Human and Machine Consciousness March 7, 2018 DOI: 10.11647/obp.0107.10 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractOnce a reliable theory of consciousness is developed, it could be used to modify and enhance conscious experience, such as altering the shape of the conscious body or increasing the level of consciousness. The chapter outlines how such a theory could identify the physical brain state corresponding to a desired conscious state; realizing that physical state would produce the experience. This technological possibility remains many years away.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | 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.