Predictable internal brain dynamics in EEG and its relation to conscious states.
Jaewook Yoo, Jaerock Kwon, Yoonsuck Choe
Frontiers in Neurorobotics 2014 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2014.00018 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Computational analysis of publicly available EEG data Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Human sleep and awake EEG recordings from a public dataset |
| Keywords | EEG Consciousness Neuroevolution Predictable dynamics Sleep |
| Key points | EEG signals from awake and REM sleep states had more predictable dynamics than those from slow-wave sleep. The authors argue this supports their hypothesis that predictive internal dynamics is an objective necessary condition of consciousness, suggesting a relationship among prediction, consciousness, and time. |
Abstract
Consciousness is a complex and multi-faceted phenomenon defying scientific explanation. Part of the reason why this is the case is due to its subjective nature. In our previous computational experiments, to avoid such a subjective trap, we took a strategy to investigate objective necessary conditions of consciousness. Our basic hypothesis was that predictive internal dynamics serves as such a condition. This is in line with theories of consciousness that treat retention (memory), protention (anticipation), and primary impression as the tripartite temporal structure of consciousness. To test our hypothesis, we analyzed publicly available sleep and awake electroencephalogram (EEG) data. Our results show that EEG signals from awake or rapid eye movement (REM) sleep states have more predictable dynamics compared to those from slow-wave sleep (SWS). Since awakeness and REM sleep are associated with conscious states and SWS with unconscious or less consciousness states, these results support our hypothesis. The results suggest an intricate relationship among prediction, consciousness, and time, with potential applications to time perception and neurorobotics.