Single Idea 2403

[catalogued under 15. Nature of Minds / B. Features of Minds / 3. Privacy]

Full Idea

Even if we knew every last detail about the physics of the universe, that information would not lead us to postulate the existence of conscious experience.

Gist of Idea

Nothing in physics even suggests consciousness

Source

David J.Chalmers (The Conscious Mind [1996], 2.3.1.3)

Book Reference

Chalmers,David J.: 'The Conscious Mind' [OUP 1997], p.101


A Reaction

I find this a very strange claim. Given that the biggest gap in our physical knowledge is that concerning the brain and consciousness, Chalmer is no position to say this. Why shouldn't a physical revelation suddenly make consciousness inevitable?