The Science of Sirens
June 11, 2026 DOI: 10.1093/9780197840283.003.0009 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Consciousness Opposition politics Philosophy of science Scientific realism Key lock Character mathematics Epistemology |
| Key points | Argues that illusionism has non-trivial implications for consciousness science, challenging key assumptions about the unity, determinacy, and informativeness of consciousness, and that the opposition between realism and illusionism is illuminated by the concept of a paradigm shift. |
Abstract
Abstract This chapter examines illusionism’s implications for the science of consciousness. It presents current debates within the science of consciousness and oppositions between the main scientific theories of consciousness. It argues against two radical interpretations of illusionism’s implications: one on which illusionism makes all of consciousness science moot, and one on which it leaves it untouched. The chapter shows why illusionism has non-trivial and non-simplistic implications for consciousness science, notably as it challenges various key implicit assumptions at play in much of consciousness science, regarding the unity and determinacy of consciousness, as well as regarding the informative character of consciousness-related claims. Finally, the chapter argues that the concept of paradigm shift illuminates the opposition between realism and illusionism about phenomenal consciousness.