Different theories of consciousness—Global Workspace, Higher-Order, Integrated Information, and Predictive Coding—each explain distinct aspects of conscious experience but often conflict due to differing assumptions. This paper argues for a pluralistic approach that respects each theory's contributions, using phenomenological reflection to clarify their explanatory scope. Rather than reducing consciousness to a single principle, the author shows how these models address complementary dimensions of lived experience. Integration grounded in reflective analysis, not unification, is proposed as a starting point for a more adequate science of consciousness.
Integrated Information Theory (IIT) proposes that consciousness arises from a system's capacity to integrate information. This critical review traces the theory's evolution, highlighting advances in its mathematical framework and persistent controversies. The authors outline fundamental IIT concepts, discuss major theoretical transitions and intra-model problems, and present extra-model issues concerning the theory's principles. They conclude that future development of IIT should more seriously incorporate metacognitive accessibility to experience.