Consciousness Self and Language

The essay argues that the confounding factors absent in Minimal Phenomenal Experience (MPE) states—pure states of consciousness described in earlier work—are related to language. The self that disappears in mindful states is a product of language. Language, emotion, and mindfulness are analyzed through Bayesian pattern matching, or free-energy minimization, using three human-specific pattern types: word patterns, self-patterns (which drive emotions and are part of language), and mindful patterns. Practicing mindfulness involves learning mindful patterns that compete with and displace self-patterns, enabling mindful states. Consequences for theories of consciousness and their relation to MPE states are explored.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Theories of consciousness depend on data, and it needs to be appropriate data, without overwhelming confounding factors. The reports of Minimal Phenomenal Experience (MPE) in [Metzinger 2024] relate to consciousness in a state purer than everyday consciousness, which may have fewer confounding factors. This essay suggests that the confounding factors, which are absent or diminished in MPE states, are related to language. The self which is absent in mindful states is a product of language. The link between language and MPE states is demonstrated by reference to the phenomenal reports in [Metzinger 2024]. Language, emotion, and mindfulness are analysed in terms of Bayesian pattern matching, or equivalently minimisation of Free Energy, using three types of pattern which are specific to humans. These types are the word patterns of language, self-patterns which drive our emotions and which are also a part of language, and mindful patterns. The practice of mindfulness involves learning mindful patterns, which compete with self-patterns and displace them, allowing mindful states to occur. Consequences of this picture for theories of consciousness, and their relation to MPE states, are explored.