Normal Alert Consciousness: A Central Executive Model of Hippocampal Function
IntechOpen eBooks July 19, 2023 DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.111569 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 2 |
| Key points | Argues that previous theories of consciousness poorly explain inner experience, and proposes a model in which the hippocampus, through combined left and right hippocampal effects, centrally executes and coordinates cognitive functions of normal alert consciousness while filtering irrelevant information. Contends this model has implications for neurological disorders, free will, and the possibility of sentience in artificial intelligence. |
Abstract
The relationship between brain and consciousness has been debated since Descartes in the 1500s, new theories arising in the twentieth century with the development of modern neuroscience. All are controversial due to the lack of consensus on the definition of consciousness, what cognitive properties must be explained, and how to evaluate sentience. Most theoretical explanations bear little relationship to our inner conscious experiences. In the current monograph, the normal alert state of consciousness is defined, and components to be explained are delineated. Debunking misconceptions from previous theories and presenting new evidence, a model is proposed whereby the hippocampus plays a central role in executing and coordinating cognitive functions associated with normal alert consciousness. Key elements of the model reflect recent findings that the combined effect from the left and right hippocampus influences other regions involved in performing many or all cognitive tasks while filtering out irrelevant information. Methods are described for testing the model. Finally, implications are discussed for a variety of neurological disorders and philosophophical issues, including free will and the possibility of sentience in artificial intelligence.