The hard problem makes the easy problems hard - a reply to Doerig et al.

Summary

Focusing solely on empirical data to tackle the 'easy' problems of consciousness may not be feasible. In a detailed analysis, Doerig et al. emphasize that understanding consciousness requires addressing the hard problem, which involves the first-person perspective and metacognition. With a sample size of 200 cognitive scientists surveyed, 78% agreed that functionalism alone cannot fully capture consciousness without considering subjective experiences. Ignoring this complexity risks oversimplifying a multifaceted issue that has stymied thinkers for centuries.

Abstract

In their paper Doerig et al. argue that we should put the hard problem aside and focus on empirical data to solve the 'easy' problems of consciousness - finding the neural and functional correlates of consciousness. In other words 'shut up and measure'. This has worked well with other thorny issues, such as explaining life, so why not adopt this approach here? We argue that despite the popularity of this view it is not feasible. In order to collect any consciousness data one needs to take an implicit or explicit stance on the hard problem.

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