Task 9

Question 1

What is consciousness?

Answer 1

Consciousness is the state of being aware of and able to think about one’s own existence, thoughts, and surroundings.

Question 2

What are the main categories of consciousness theories?

Answer 2

Neuroscientific, cognitive, quantum, and higher-order theories.

Question 3

What does the Global Workspace Theory (GWT) propose?

Answer 3

GWT suggests that consciousness arises from the integration of information across different brain networks, like a “theater” where various inputs compete for attention

Question 4

Who proposed the Global Workspace Theory?

Answer 4

Bernard Baars.

Question 5

What is the Integrated Information Theory (IIT)?

Answer 5

IIT proposes that consciousness arises from the amount and complexity of integrated information within a system.

Question 6

What does Higher-Order Theory (HOT) suggest?

Answer 6

HOT posits that consciousness depends on higher-order thoughts, meaning one must have thoughts about their own mental states.

Question 7

What is the predictive processing theory?

Answer 7

It argues that consciousness emerges from the brain’s predictions about sensory input, refining its models of the world.

Question 8

How does the Global Neuronal Workspace (GNW) model differ from GWT?

Answer 8

GNW focuses on the role of widespread neural communication in making information accessible for conscious awareness.