Consciousness without a cortex, but what kind of consciousness is this?
Behavioral and Brain Sciences February 1, 2007 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x07000957 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that the midbrain reticular system, not the thalamocortical system, is responsible for consciousness as the waking state, while the thalamocortical system is indispensable for phenomenal consciousness. |
Abstract
Merker suggests that the thalamocortical system is not an essential system for consciousness, but, instead, that the midbrain reticular system is responsible for consciousness. Indeed, the latter is a crucial system for consciousness, when consciousness is regarded as the waking state. However, when consciousness is regarded as phenomenal consciousness, for which experience and perception are essential elements, the thalamocortical system seems to be indispensable.