How do you define consciousness—is it a of the brain, or something more fundamental to the universe?
Understanding the history of consciousness requires us to look at three distinct timelines: the biological evolution of the brain, the cultural evolution of the mind, and the philosophical evolution of the "Self." 1. The Biological Spark (The "When") The Origins and History of Consciousness
During the Cambrian explosion, organisms developed complex eyes and nervous systems. Some scientists, like Feinberg and Mallatt, argue that "primary consciousness"—the ability to map the environment and react to it—emerged here. How do you define consciousness—is it a of
The Ghost in the Machine: The Origins and History of Consciousness Some scientists, like Feinberg and Mallatt, argue that
Today, philosopher David Chalmers points to "The Hard Problem." We can explain how the brain functions (the "easy" problems), but we still can't explain why any of that function is accompanied by an internal experience. Why Does History Matter?
Biologists generally agree that consciousness didn't appear overnight. Instead, it likely evolved in stages.
For most of history, consciousness was synonymous with the soul—a divine, non-physical spark.