Process and the brain: the origins of reflexive consciousness
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Authors
Pikorz, Jesse
Issue Date
2013
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Consciousness
Alternative Title
Abstract
In this thesis, I show how consciousness correlates with the nature and complexity of associated neural processes, applying Arthur Young's reflexive arc of evolution to discover how and why reflexive consciousness develops in systems of matter, from subatomic particles to the human brain.
One recent attempt to place consciousness in a context of scientific materialism is the Orch OR model developed by Stuart Hameroff and Roger Penrose. Despite their attempts, they succeed only in developing a model of how quantum mechanical actions of neurons correlate to particular states of consciousness. They fall short of demonstrating any causal relationship between quantum-neuronal events and the production of consciousness. When I apply Christian de Quincey's philosophy of radical naturalism, we see that consciousness is present already throughout the Orch OR model, in every system, or monad, of matter.
Hierarchical as well as heterarchical intersubjective relationships exist among the levels and units of systems of matter. I speculate that the combination of these processes account for reflexive consciousness. Arthur Young's reflexive arc model of involution and evolution demonstrates the process of consciousness "descending" through various levels and stages of constraint, resulting in the emergence of molar matter from the original source of "Spirit," which Young identifies with the "quantum of (purposeful) action" or photon, and de Quincey characterizes as primordial "sentient energy." The "descent into matter" is then followed by an "ascent" back through the evolution of matter, life, mind, and soul to spirit (de Quincey, 1993, p. 9). A key thesis of this work is: Only through a process of creating an experience of relationship with "other" can the universe experience reflexive consciousness.