Toward a universal theory of consciousness
Neuroscience of Consciousness January 1, 2024 Ryota Kanai, Ippei Fujisawa
The paper introduces 'Universality' as a desirable property for theories of consciousness, borrowed from physics, where fundamental laws apply consistently everywhere. Universality requires that a theory can determine whether any fully described dynamical system is conscious or non-conscious, based on intrinsic properties rather than external interpretation. Most current theories lack this property, as they focus on neural correlates of consciousness in brain-centric systems. The authors argue that functionalist theories could become universal by specifying mathematical formulations of their concepts. While neurobiological and functionalist theories remain useful, a universal theory is needed to fully explain why certain systems possess consciousness.