Why Seth (and everyone else) ought to be an illusionist.
Behavioral and Brain Sciences September 17, 2026 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x25103609 (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 supposed fundamental difference between studying consciousness and studying intelligence and cognition more broadly is mistaken, drawing on the so-called "illusionists." Suggests that although the research landscape then looks different, Seth's core conclusions about the importance of living organisations might still obtain. |
Abstract
The paper assumes a fundamental difference between the study of consciousness and the study of intelligence and cognition more widely construed. I question this assumption, drawing on work by the (badly named) "illusionists." Once we see past the illusions, the landscape looks different, although Seth's core conclusions (about the importance of living organisations) might still obtain.