Kinds Without Structure Are Blind; Structure Without Kinds Is Empty: Remarks on the Methodology of Consciousness Science

Consciousness research faces challenges from diverse and conflicting theories. This paper argues that the common approach of searching for a single 'natural kind' of consciousness is insufficient. It proposes supplementing this with a structural realist framework, which shifts the focus from identifying one fundamental type to understanding invariant structural relationships shared across different theories. Using predictive processing as a formal framework to characterize these common patterns, the approach aims to integrate divergent accounts into a more unified and objective understanding of consciousness, guiding rather than replacing natural kind reasoning.

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Abstract

Abstract This paper critically examines the challenges in consciousness research, with a focus on natural kind (NK) reasoning. It proposes supplementing NK reasoning with a structural realist framework, shifting the focus from identifying a natural kind of consciousness to understanding invariant structural relationships across diverse theories, thereby addressing divergence and ensuring coherence. By using predictive processing as a formal framework that underlies the diversity of consciousness accounts and characterises common structural patterns, the structural realist approach aims to integrate divergent theories, offering a more robust, objective, and unified understanding of consciousness that can supplement and guide natural kind reasoning.