A Phenomenal Conversation
Are the "Hard" Problems of Consciousness Still With Us? A conversation with Professor Gregg Henriques.
The hard problem of consciousness refers to the challenge of explaining how and why sentient experiences arise from physical processes in the brain. Unlike the "easy" problems of understanding how the brain processes signals or controls behavior, the hard problem questions how subjective experiences, like the color red or the feeling of pain, emerge from physical matter. It delves into why an inner, qualitative experience accompanies certain brain activities and why these experiences feel a certain way. This problem highlights a fundamental gap in our understanding of the relationship between physical processes and conscious experience.
For over two decades, Gregg Henriques has been committed to forging a unified and coherent approach within the domains of psychology and psychotherapy. His journey began in 2003 with the publication of his approach aimed at providing a theoretically integrated view of the field.
His efforts bore significant fruit in 2011 with the publication of A New Unified Theory of Psychology, a landmark in his quest for integration. Beyond academic writing, he has shared his insights through a "Theory of Knowledge" blog on Psychology Today, covering discussions on philosophy, morality, politics, and psychology's challenges.
Gregg and I had been discussing the nature of phenomenal consciousness off-camera. Our conversation has been one in which we steadily isolate some of the so-called “hard problems” of consciousness, both in light of Gregg’s work in cognitive psychology and philosophical approaches to such problems.
Numerous interesting academics and thinkers are guests on his UTOK podcast. Somehow, he made time for me.
Here is our conversation about phenomenal consciousness, which Henriques calls “Mind2.”
I like the graphic for the Tree of Knowledge. It incorporates all the important developmental aspects of our becoming a sentient species. Interesting how the idea of knowledge was once considered taboo in former times of human existence and culture.
Looking forward to watching/listening!