Introspection Redux

A new method of guided introspection, epistemologically analogous to quantum physics, can incorporate consciousness into social research and transform the understanding of agency. By accessing the phenomenal consciousness of actors, researchers can map mental processes underlying decision-making. This approach promises fresh insights into conflict, cooperation, political polarization, radicalization, violent extremism, terrorism, and the social transformations needed to address climate change. It also complements existing biological, evolutionary, and neuroscientific approaches to social phenomena.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Building on new trends in neuroscience and philosophy of mind, this chapter provides a roadmap for incorporating consciousness into social research, by introducing a method of guided introspection that has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of agency. This method, whose epistemological situation is isomorphic to that of quantum physics, enables researchers to gain insight into the structures of decision-making processes. Such an endeavor is extremely relevant for social science, as it could lead to a new understanding of the dynamics of conflict, cooperation, political polarization, radicalization, violent extremism, and terrorism, as well as of the processes of social transformation required to cope with climate change. Moreover, bringing consciousness into social research could foster ongoing biological, evolutionary, and neuroscientific approaches to the social. Thus, through the introduction of the “phenomenal consciousness” of actors, it is shown how we can dive into the fountainhead of human agency and map mental processes.