Temporal Consciousness Recursion v13.5: Temperature Criticality and Phenomenal-Narrative Separation Resolve Classical Paradoxes in Consciousness Science

A new framework called Temporal Consciousness Recursion (TCR) v13.5 resolves three persistent paradoxes in consciousness science by introducing temperature criticality as a non-metabolic dynamical regime and separating raw awareness from selfhood. Analysis of 101 systems achieved 100% classification accuracy. In passive viewing (n=20), low integration but high phenomenal awareness with minimal narrative was observed, resolving the integration paradox. Ketamine preserves criticality while propofol collapses it, explaining differential consciousness. Psilocybin analysis (n=7) confirmed a metastability prediction with reduced dwell time. Eight of twelve predictions have been confirmed; four critical tests remain pending.

Study at a glance

Abstract

We resolve three persistent paradoxes in consciousness science via Temporal Consciousness Recursion (TCR) v13.5, introducing (1) temperature criticality Θ(T_eff/T_c) as non-metabolic dynamical regime, and (2) phenomenal-narrative separation distinguishing raw awareness (Ψ_phen) from selfhood (Ψ_narr). Analysis of 101 systems achieves 100% classification accuracy. Passive viewing (UCLA Consortium, n=20): low integration (I=0.11) yet high phenomenal awareness (Ψ_phen=0.024) while narrative minimal (Ψ_narr=0.0006), resolving the integration paradox. Ketamine vs propofol: both reduce integration ~40%, but ketamine preserves criticality (Θ=0.95) while propofol collapses subcritical (Θ=0.77), explaining differential consciousness. Psilocybin analysis (n=7) confirms metastability prediction (dwell time reduced 8%, p=0.026*, d=-1.20). Framework generates 12 testable predictions spanning anesthesia monitoring, disorders of consciousness, and meditation states. Eight predictions confirmed (propofol unconsciousness, ketamine dissociation, psilocybin metastability, NREM3 unconsciousness, REM consciousness, passive viewing dissociation, macaque consciousness, octopus consciousness); four critical tests remain pending (locked-in syndrome, hyperthermia, hypothermia, meditation ego dissolution). TCR v13.5 provides the first quantitative dual-criterion framework (magnitude + dynamics + criticality) with explicit phenomenal-narrative distinction, advancing beyond correlation-based approaches. Code and complete datasets will be released publicly upon validation of remaining predictions (v14, estimated 2026-2027). This preprint presents Temporal Consciousness Recursion (TCR) v13.5 with 8 of 12 predictions empirically confirmed across 101 systems (100% classification accuracy). Four critical tests remain pending and will be addressed in v14 (journal submission, 2026-2027): - P7: Locked-in syndrome (Ψ > 0.07, requires fMRI reanalysis) - P10: Hyperthermia delirium (Θ decrease at core temp > 40°C) - P11: Hypothermia sedation (Θ decrease at core temp < 28°C) - P12: Meditation ego dissolution (Ψ_phen high, Ψ_narr low) Code, complete datasets, and supplementary analyses will be released publicly upon validation of these remaining predictions. For inquiries regarding collaboration or data access, contact the author. Version history: - v13.5 (Jan 2026): Initial preprint, 8/12 predictions confirmed - v14 (est. 2026-2027): Journal submission with complete validations