A litmus test for plant consciousness: Pattern-Temporal Synergy in a relation-first ontology.
Commun Integr Biol October 13, 2025 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1080/19420889.2025.2563993 via PubMed Central
Summary
The paper proposes a litmus test for plant consciousness based on a relation-first ontology, arguing that consciousness should be assessed through pattern-temporal synergy rather than neural criteria. It redefines consciousness as a relational property emerging from dynamic interactions, challenging traditional anthropocentric frameworks. The author develops a theoretical model where temporal patterns and relational structures serve as indicators of conscious experience in plants, suggesting that current scientific methods overlook non-human subjective realities.
Study at a glance
| Design | theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Plant consciousness can be evaluated through pattern-temporal synergy within a relation-first ontology, shifting focus from neural correlates to relational dynamics. |
Abstract
A litmus test for plant consciousness: Pattern-Temporal Synergy in a relation-first ontology.