Psychedelics, entropic brain theory, and the taxonomy of conscious states: a summary of debates and perspectives.
Neuroscience of consciousness January 1, 2023 Sidath Rankaduwa, Adrian M Owen 21 citations
The entropic brain theory (EBT) explains how psychedelics alter brain activity by increasing brain entropy, offering insights into both normal and altered states of consciousness. This theory has implications for debates about whether consciousness exists in levels or dimensions, whether the psychedelic state represents a higher level of consciousness, and whether psychedelics could treat disorders of consciousness such as minimally conscious or vegetative states. The article summarizes EBT's core principles and their relevance to a theoretical model of consciousness, emphasizing that the therapeutic value of psychedelics for such patients depends on set and setting.