Adversarial testing of global neuronal workspace and integrated information theories of consciousness

Nature, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: April 30, 2025

Different theories explain how subjective experience arises from brain activity1,2. These have independently accrued evidence, but not been directly compared3. Here we present an open science adversarial collaboration juxtaposing integrated information theory (IIT)4,5 and global neuronal workspace (GNWT)6-10 via a theory-neutral consortium11-13. The proponents the consortium developed preregistered experimental design, divergent predictions, expected outcomes interpretation thereof12. Human participants (n = 256) viewed suprathreshold stimuli for variable durations while neural activity was measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging, magnetoencephalography intracranial electroencephalography. We found about conscious content in visual, ventrotemporal inferior frontal cortex, sustained responses occipital lateral temporal cortex reflecting stimulus duration, content-specific synchronization between early visual areas. results align some predictions of IIT GNWT, substantially challenging key tenets both theories. For IIT, lack within posterior contradicts claim that network connectivity specifies consciousness. GNWT is challenged by general ignition at offset limited representation certain dimensions prefrontal cortex. challenges extend to other consciousness share tested here14-17. Beyond theories, alternative approach advance cognitive neuroscience through principled, theory-driven, collaborative research highlight need quantitative framework systematic testing building.

Language: Английский

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Unpacking the Complexities of Consciousness: Theories and Reflections

Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 106053 - 106053

Published: Feb. 1, 2025

As the field of consciousness science matures, research agenda has expanded from an initial focus on neural correlates consciousness, to developing and testing theories consciousness. Several have been put forward, each aiming elucidate relationship between brain function. However, there is ongoing, intense debate regarding whether these examine same phenomenon. And, despite ongoing efforts, it seems like so far failed converge around any single theory, instead exhibits significant polarization. To advance this discussion, proponents five prominent consciousness-Global Neuronal Workspace Theory (GNWT), Higher-Order Theories (HOT), Integrated Information (IIT), Recurrent Processing (RPT), Predictive (PP)-engaged in a public 2022, as part annual meeting Association for Scientific Study Consciousness (ASSC). They were invited clarify explananda their theories, articulate core mechanisms underpinning corresponding explanations, outline foundational premises. This was followed by open discussion that delved into testability potential evidence could refute them, areas consensus disagreement. Most importantly, demonstrated at stage, more controversy than agreement pertaining most basic questions what is, how identify conscious states, required theory Addressing crucial advancing towards deeper understanding comparison competing theories.

Language: Английский

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Preliminaries to artificial consciousness: a multidimensional heuristic approach.

Physics of Life Reviews, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 52, P. 180 - 193

Published: Jan. 5, 2025

The pursuit of artificial consciousness requires conceptual clarity to navigate its theoretical and empirical challenges. This paper introduces a composite, multilevel, multidimensional model as heuristic framework guide research in this field. Consciousness is treated complex phenomenon, with distinct constituents dimensions that can be operationalized for study evaluating their replication. We argue provides balanced approach by avoiding binary thinking (e.g., conscious vs. non-conscious) offering structured basis testable hypotheses. To illustrate utility, we focus on "awareness" case study, demonstrating how specific pragmatically analyzed targeted potential instantiation. By breaking down the intricacies aligning them practical goals, lays groundwork robust strategy advance scientific technical understanding consciousness.

Language: Английский

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Context‐Sensitive Conscious Interpretation and Layer‐5 Pyramidal Neurons in Multistable Perception

Brain and Behavior, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 15(3)

Published: March 1, 2025

There appears to be a fundamental difference between the two ways of how an object becomes perceptually experienced. One occurs when preconscious object-specifying sensory data processing crosses certain threshold so that constituents depiction become consciously The other already experienced features interpreted as belonging visual category. Surprisingly, experimental facts about neural markers conscious access gathered far do not allow us distinguish mechanisms responsible for these varieties. A cortical multicompartment layer-5 pyramidal neuron-based generic model is presented in order conceptualize possible mechanistic solution explanatory cul-de-sac. To support argument, review pertinent research compiled associated with from studies where physically invariant perceptual stimuli have underwent alternative interpretation(s) by brain. Recent developments newly emerging field cellular psycho(physio)logy are introduced, offering hypothetical distinguishing subserving content experience and interpretation. single cell-based approach brain process correlates perception added value beyond traditional inter-areal connectivity-based theoretical stances.

Language: Английский

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Reassessing Information in Understanding the Temporality of Consciousness

Published: June 5, 2024

This paper delves into the concept of information within context conscious systems, emphasizing pivotal role entropy as a fundamental aspect in comprehending consciousness. Drawing on insights from Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and theory, argument posits that consciousness entails dynamic processing, distinct static storage retrieval model employed by modern computers. The intrinsic dynamics neural systems are explored, illuminating how they integrate incoming stimuli unified state subjective experience, thereby shaping awareness. By considering temporal qualitative value, its significance reducing uncertainty facilitating adaptability is underscored. Through series principles, intricate relationship between entropy, dynamics, elucidated. analysis suggests necessity rethinking traditional notions when applied to highlighting nature interaction with environment.

Language: Английский

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Better bridges: Integrating the neuroscience and philosophy of consciousness

Consciousness and Cognition, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 126, P. 103774 - 103774

Published: Nov. 1, 2024

Language: Английский

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