There can be more to consciousness research than theory testing.
Morten Overgaard, Peter Fazekas, Asger Kirkeby-Hinrup, Kristian Sandberg, Wanja Wiese
Communications psychology November 26, 2025 DOI: 10.1038/s44271-025-00357-9 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe field of consciousness research lacks consensus due to reliance on competing grand theories. A more productive path forward would shift focus toward construct-based, data-driven, and iterative approaches that identify empirical building blocks of conscious experience, enabling cumulative and integrative progress.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | A construct-based, data-driven, and iterative approach offers a more cumulative and integrative path for consciousness research than competing grand theories. |
Abstract
Consciousness research has long been dominated by competing grand theories, yet consensus remains elusive. We propose shifting focus toward construct-based, data-driven, and iterative approaches that identify the empirical building blocks of conscious experience and provide a more cumulative, integrative path forward for the field.