How to Live in the Moment: The Methodology and Limitations of Evolutionary Research on Consciousness.
Cognitive science March 1, 2025 Christian R De Weerd, Leonard Dung 4 citations
Evolutionary arguments alone cannot confirm or falsify hypotheses about consciousness; consciousness science must rely primarily on experimental and observational evidence from humans and other animals alive today. The authors argue against "evolution-first" approaches that treat evolutionary considerations as the primary lens for assessing consciousness. Using Walter Veit's account as an example, they contend such approaches lack compelling empirical support. While evolutionary thinking can help advance consciousness research, it should not be foundational for hypothesis justification, though it may still play a role in hypothesis generation.