The article proposes a new theory of consciousness called "assembly theory," suggesting that consciousness arises not simply from complex arrangements of matter, but from specific combinations of these arrangements, akin to how molecules gain new properties distinct from their constituent atoms. These combinations, termed "assemblies," represent information stored in the structure of molecules, especially within living organisms. The complexity of these assemblies, measurable by their "assembly index," correlates with the level of consciousness. This theory proposes that higher levels of consciousness require more complex and diverse assemblies, implying consciousness could exist in varying degrees across different systems, not just biological ones. It offers a potentially testable framework for identifying and quantifying consciousness through analyzing the complexity of molecular structures and their interactions.
In a provocative and extensively detailed essay titled "A New Proposal for How Mind Emerges from Matter," published in Noema Magazine, neuroscientist and philosopher Tam Hunt articulates a novel theoretical framework aimed at resolving the enduring philosophical conundrum of consciousness, often framed as the "hard problem." Hunt's central thesis revolves around the concept of "resonance," not merely in its common physical understanding, but as a fundamental principle woven into the fabric of reality, extending from the quantum realm to the macroscopic world of complex biological systems.
Hunt argues that traditional materialistic explanations of consciousness, which attempt to reduce subjective experience to mere electrochemical activity in the brain, fall demonstrably short. He posits that these reductionist approaches fail to account for the qualitative nature of experience – what it feels like to be conscious – also known as "qualia." Instead, Hunt proposes that consciousness arises from a hierarchical cascade of resonant interactions across multiple scales of organization, beginning with the fundamental quantum fields that underpin all matter and energy.
He elaborates on the concept of "Vibratory Proto-Consciousness," suggesting that even at the most basic level, quantum fields possess a rudimentary form of subjective experience. This proto-consciousness is not localized in space and time but rather diffuse and pre-experiential. As these fundamental fields interact and resonate with each other, forming particles and atoms, they begin to exhibit more complex forms of resonance, ultimately leading to the emergence of molecular structures. This process of increasing complexity through resonance continues within biological systems, with the intricate interplay of biomolecules, cells, and neural networks creating increasingly sophisticated resonant patterns.
Hunt meticulously details how the synchronous firing of neurons in the brain, often observed in various states of consciousness, could be understood not just as correlated activity but as a manifestation of macroscopic resonance. This "neural resonance" becomes the substrate for subjective experience, giving rise to the unified sense of self and the rich tapestry of our conscious awareness. He highlights how the brain's electromagnetic field, generated by the electrical activity of neurons, could play a critical role in facilitating and integrating these resonant processes, potentially serving as a global workspace for consciousness.
Furthermore, Hunt's theory incorporates the concept of "Integrated Information Theory" (IIT), which posits that consciousness is directly related to the amount of integrated information within a system, denoted by Φ (Phi). He proposes that resonance might be the mechanism by which this integration occurs, suggesting that highly resonant systems are inherently more capable of integrating information and therefore exhibit higher levels of consciousness.
Finally, Hunt acknowledges that his proposal is still speculative and requires further empirical investigation. However, he contends that it provides a promising and conceptually coherent framework for bridging the explanatory gap between matter and mind, offering a potentially unifying principle that connects the physical and subjective realms of existence. He suggests that future research focusing on the resonant properties of biological systems, particularly the brain, could offer valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and potentially pave the way for a more comprehensive understanding of this profound mystery.
Summary of Comments ( 3 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43181520
Hacker News users discuss the "Integrated Information Theory" (IIT) of consciousness proposed in the article, expressing significant skepticism. Several commenters find the theory overly complex and question its practical applicability and testability. Some argue it conflates correlation with causation, suggesting IIT merely describes the complexity of systems rather than explaining consciousness. The high degree of abstraction and lack of concrete predictions are also criticized. A few commenters offer alternative perspectives, suggesting consciousness might be a fundamental property, or referencing other theories like predictive processing. Overall, the prevailing sentiment is one of doubt regarding IIT's validity and usefulness as a model of consciousness.
The Hacker News post titled "A New Proposal for How Mind Emerges from Matter" linking to a Noema Magazine article has generated a moderate number of comments, many of which express skepticism or critique the core ideas presented in the article. Several commenters find the proposition vague and lacking in concrete scientific grounding.
One recurring theme in the comments is the perceived lack of a clear definition of "mind" or "consciousness." Commenters point out that without a rigorous definition, it's difficult to evaluate the claims made in the article. They argue that the article relies heavily on philosophical concepts without offering a concrete mechanism for how these concepts translate to physical processes in the brain.
Several commenters critique the article's use of the term "integrated information theory" (IIT). Some argue that IIT, while intriguing, hasn't yet produced empirically testable predictions and therefore remains speculative. Others suggest that IIT might be a sophisticated way of restating the hard problem of consciousness without actually offering a solution.
Some comments express frustration with what they see as a trend of philosophical musings masquerading as scientific breakthroughs in the field of consciousness research. They call for more emphasis on empirical research and less on abstract theorizing.
A few commenters engage with the article's core ideas more directly, suggesting alternative perspectives on the relationship between mind and matter. One commenter proposes that consciousness might be an emergent property of complex systems, similar to how wetness emerges from the interaction of water molecules. Another commenter argues that focusing solely on the brain might be too narrow a perspective, and that consciousness might involve a broader interaction with the environment.
While some express a degree of interest in the article's proposition, the overall tone of the comments is one of cautious skepticism. Many commenters express a desire for more scientific rigor and less philosophical speculation in discussions about the nature of consciousness. They emphasize the need for testable hypotheses and empirical evidence to move the field forward. No single comment emerges as overwhelmingly compelling, but the collective sentiment emphasizes the need for greater clarity and scientific grounding in this complex area of inquiry.