The source of consciousness

Trends Cogn Sci. 2014 Aug;18(8):387-9. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2014.05.012. Epub 2014 Jul 9.

Abstract

Why does a relentless stream of experiences normally fill your mind? No answer is entirely satisfactory. We are not sure how the normal operation of the human brain might exude subjective experiences. Consciousness can thus seem miraculous, and research on consciousness a waste of time and money, ultimately doomed to fail. Yet, there are good reasons for optimism that should be shared with the public to justify research in this area.

MeSH terms

  • Awareness
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Consciousness / physiology*
  • Humans