Bridging Thought and Reality: The Fusion of Philosophy and Cognitive Science in Consciousness Studies
Mind and Consciousness: Bridging Philosophy and Cognitive Science October 10, 2024 Murali Krishna Pasupuleti
This chapter examines how philosophy of mind and cognitive science together address consciousness, reviewing historical and modern perspectives on the mind-body problem, perception, cognition, and self-awareness. It discusses key philosophical theories such as dualism, materialism, and emergentism, alongside cognitive science contributions from neuroscience, brain imaging, and AI. Major theories of consciousness, including Global Workspace Theory and Integrated Information Theory, are explored to bridge philosophical inquiry with empirical research. The chapter also considers the role of perception, cognition, and emotion in shaping conscious experience, and the ethical implications of creating conscious AI. It concludes that interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for understanding consciousness, free will, and personal identity.