‘Collision Course’ in the Science of Consciousness
Center for Consciousness Studies, University of ArizonaThe nature of consciousness, the reality it conveys and our place in the universe remain unknown. Since ancient times, two types of views have approached these questions. In Western science and philosophy, consciousness is strictly a by-product of brain activity, the reality it perceives not to be trusted (‘Plato’s cave’, Descartes’ ‘brain-in-a-vat’, Dennett’s ‘multiple drafts’). On the other hand, in Eastern philosophy, consciousness is primary, the fundamental basis for reality.