The neural correlates of consciousness: Causes, confounds and constituents

A framework for identifying the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs) is developed. The chapter distinguishes NCCs, which are central to consciousness science, from other neural correlates that are typically considered confounds. It argues that the notion of NCCs involves overlooked complexities. Reasons for placing NCCs at the center of consciousness research are considered, followed by methodological challenges in distinguishing NCCs from other types of neural correlates.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This chapter develops a framework for addressing the neural correlates of consciousness. We begin by distinguishing the kinds of neural correlates that are of central interest to the science of consciousness (what we call ‘NCCs’) from the kinds of neural correlates that are more peripheral to consciousness science and which are typically regarded as confounds from the perspective of consciousness research. We also examine various aspects of the NCCs, arguing that the notion involves complexities that have often been overlooked in the literature. We then consider various reasons for placing NCCs at the center of consciousness research, before considering a number of methodological challenges faced by consciousness science in attempting to distinguish the NCCs from neural correlates of various other types.