Beyond accommodation: on the structural turn in computational functionalist theories of consciousness.

Summary

Recent advances in consciousness research reveal how brain structure, not just function, shapes our conscious experience. This analysis shows how Integrated Information Theory anticipated key insights about how neural connections create consciousness. The work challenges traditional functionalist models by demonstrating that physical brain architecture, especially local neural networks in sensory regions, plays a crucial role in conscious awareness.

Abstract

This commentary engages with recent work on computational functionalist theories of consciousness through a structural lens. We address three key aspects: the role of subjective experience in theory building, the hypothesis regarding local lateral connectivity in sensory areas, and the implications of "silent units" for consciousness. We argue that while their structural turn is welcome, many of their insights were previously predicted by Integrated Information Theory. We question the coherence of these claims within the functionalist paradigm and emphasize the importance of distinguishing genuine predictions from post-hoc accommodations in consciousness science.

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