Towards a pluralistic neurobiological understanding of consciousness

Think of consciousness like a jigsaw puzzle. For years, scientists have been trying to find the one perfect piece that fits neatly into the whole picture. But now, a new perspective is emerging. Instead of searching for a single key to unlock the mysteries of consciousness, researchers are realizing that the puzzle is made up of different pieces, each with their own unique shape and function. In the field of consciousness science, this shift in thinking is challenging the long-held assumption that all aspects of consciousness can be explained by a single set of mechanisms. Inspired by Crick and Koch’s groundbreaking 1990 paper, which laid the foundation for the scientific study of consciousness, researchers are now embracing a pluralistic approach. They recognize that states and contents of consciousness, perception, introspection, and even experiences like pain all involve distinct mechanisms. This exciting new perspective opens up endless possibilities for understanding the fascinating phenomenon of consciousness in all its complexity.