On the Neurodynamics of Consciousness: A Field Theory for Qualia and Intentional Objects
Preprints.org July 2, 2026 preprint DOI: 10.20944/preprints202506.1060.v2
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA new theoretical framework proposes that consciousness is a nonlocal field shaped by brain energy dynamics, introducing 'neurentelechy' as a measure of energy dissipation tied to conscious content. The model uses vector representations of sensory qualities and intentional configurations to formalize how neural activity produces structured subjective experiences. It predicts an energy imbalance between metabolic and electromagnetic activity during conscious states, integrating neuroscience, thermodynamics, and phenomenology into a falsifiable model. If confirmed, this approach suggests consciousness is a fundamental structural feature of nature, modulated by neural processes, rather than an emergent anomaly.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Consciousness can be modeled as a nonlocal field influenced by brain energy dynamics, with a proposed energy imbalance between metabolic and electromagnetic activity during conscious states. |
Abstract
The Hard Problem of consciousness remains unsolved, as most current models lack explicit causal mechanisms. This paper proposes a novel theoretical framework in which consciousness is conceptualized as a nonlocal field influenced by brain energy dynamics. By introducing the construct of neurentelechy, a measure of energy dissipation associated with conscious content, the model formalizes how neural activity gives rise to structured subjective experiences. Using vector representations of sensory qualities (qualia) and intentional configurations, a mathematical formalism is developed to describe how these experiences are instantiated and transformed. The theory makes empirically testable predictions, including a proposed energy imbalance between metabolic and electromagnetic activity during conscious states. This approach integrates neuroscience, thermodynamics, and phenomenology to provide a falsifiable model of consciousness. If confirmed, it reframes consciousness not as an emergent anomaly but as a fundamental structural feature of nature, modulated by neural processes.