Philosophy, perception, and neuroscience.
Perception January 1, 2009 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1068/p6025 via PubMed
Summary
Recent neuroscience and perceptual science experiments show that virtual reality and television technology reveal how the visual brain normally works, especially involving the forebrain's cholinergic system. This research clarifies the nature of perception and the relationship between phenomenal consciousness and the brain. It directly addresses criticisms from analytical philosophers who support Naive Realism, challenging their views on these neuroscience findings.
Study at a glance
| Design | review |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Virtual reality and television technology experiments reveal the role of the cholinergic system in normal visual perception, shedding light on phenomenal consciousness and challenging Naive Realist philosophical criticisms. |
Abstract
This paper presents the results of some recent experiments in neuroscience and perceptual science that reveal the role of virtual reality in normal visual perception, and the use of television technology by the visual brain. This involves particularly the cholinergic system in the forebrain. This research throws new light on the nature of perception and the relation of phenomenal consciousness and its brain. It is directly relevant to criticisms by certain analytical philosophers of aspects of neuroscience relating to these matters. Particular attention is paid to their support for Naive Realism.