The Neuroscience of Consciousness: Unlocking the Mind
The neuroscience of consciousness is a highly controversial and largely misunderstood aspect of human cognition. The Global Neuronal Workspace Theory and the Integrated Information Theory attempt to provide an explanatory framework for the conscious experience. The ascending reticular activating system (ARAS) modulates our level of alertness and wakefulness, prerequisites for conscious awareness. Recent technological advancements like fMRI and EEG have made it possible to identify neural correlates of consciousness (NCC) – specific systems in the brain that correspond to conscious experiences. Consciousness likely involves a host of other processes, including memory, attention, intention, and social cognition.