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(2018) The map and the territory, Dordrecht, Springer.
In English we use the word "invention" in two ways. First, to mean a new device or process developed by experimentation, and designed to fulfill a practical goal. Second, to mean a mental fabrication, especially a falsehood, designed to please or persuade. In this paper I argue that human consciousness is an invention in both respects. First, it is a cognitive faculty, evolved by natural selection, designed to help us make sense of ourselves and our surroundings. But then, second, it is a fantasy, conjured up by the brain, designed to change the value we place on our existence.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-72478-2_25
Full citation:
Humphrey, N. (2018)., The invention of consciousness, in S. Wuppuluri & F. A. Doria (eds.), The map and the territory, Dordrecht, Springer, pp. 441-454.
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