The “Consciousness Problem” is Not the Problem
Perceptual and Motor Skills February 1, 1976 DOI: 10.2466/pms.1976.42.1.227 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that consciousness can be defined as the very short-term memory of a just-completed perceptual act, and is thus a psychological consequence of psychological antecedents. Contends that asking how brain processes produce consciousness is misleading, and should be replaced by questions about relationships between the brain and perception, memory, and other processes preceding consciousness. |
Abstract
Although the concept of consciousness is not necessary for the behavioral scientist, it is closely related to a number of psychological concepts that are generally believed to be necessary. Consciousness may be defined as the very short-term memory of a just-completed perceptual act. It may thus be understood as a psychological consequence of psychological antecedents. The question of how brain processes result in consciousness is a misleading one and should be replaced by questions concerning the relationships between the brain and perception, memory, and the other psychological processes that precede consciousness.