5. From Correlates to Theories of Consciousness
Human and Machine Consciousness March 7, 2018 DOI: 10.11647/obp.0107.05 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA mathematical approach to understanding the relationship between consciousness and the physical world is emerging. Pilot studies have searched for correlations between consciousness and brain activity. Compact mathematical theories are now being developed to map between physical and conscious states, potentially using computational methods to automate theory development.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Proposes that mathematical theories can map between physical and conscious states, and that computational methods may automate their development. |
Abstract
The fifth chapter explains how we can develop mathematical theories of the relationship between consciousness and the physical world. Scientists have carried out pilot studies that have looked for correlations between consciousness and brain activity. We are now starting to create compact mathematical theories that can map between physical and conscious states. It might be possible to use computational methods to develop these theories automatically.