Does unconscious perception really exist? Continuing the ASSC20 debate
Megan A. K. Peters, Robert W. Kentridge, I. Phillips, N. Block
Neuroscience of Consciousness September 6, 2017 DOI: 10.1093/nc/nix015 (opens in new tab) via Semantic Scholar
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe authors present a symposium discussion on whether unconscious perception truly exists, highlighting disagreement on definitions and empirical methods for determining unconscious states. They argue that the controversy hinges on what is meant by key terms and how to measure unconsciousness. The piece is organized into four distinct contributions to reflect the range of ideas and evidence on this topic, aiming to foster consensus among consciousness researchers.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Psychology Medicine |
| Key finding | Argues that disagreement about definitions and empirical criteria for unconscious perception remains unresolved, and that consensus is needed in consciousness research. |
Abstract
In our ASSC20 symposium, “Does unconscious perception really exist?”, the four of us asked some difficult questions about the purported phenomenon of unconscious perception, disagreeing on a number of points. This disagreement reflected the objective of the symposium: not only to come together to discuss a single topic of keen interest to the ASSC community, but to do so in a way that would fairly and comprehensively represent the heterogeneity of ideas, opinions, and evidence that exists concerning this contentious topic. The crux of this controversy rests in no small part on disagreement about what is meant by the terms of the debate and how to determine empirically whether a state is unconscious or not. These are issues that directly concern all of us who study consciousness, so it seems it would be in our best interest to strive for consensus. Given the conversation at ASSC20, we are pleased to have the opportunity to address some of the nuanced topics that arose more formally, and share some of the thinking we have done since the meeting. To reflect the heterogeneity of ideas and opinions surrounding this topic, we have organized this discussion into four distinct contributions.