I am optimistic that the so-called hard problem of…
““I am optimistic that the so-called hard problem of consciousness will be solved by empirical and conceptual advances - working in tandem - made in cognitive neuroscience. What is the hard problem ? No-one has a clue (at the moment) how to answer the question of why the neural basis of the phenomenal feel of my experience of, for example red, is the neural basis of that particular phenomenal feel rather than a different one or none at all. There is an explanatory gap here that we do not know how to close now, but I have faith that we will someday. The hard problem is conceptually and explanatorily prior to the issue of what the nature of the self is, as can be seen in part by noting that the problem would persist even for experiences that aren't organised into selves. No doubt solving the hard problem (i.e closing the explanatory gap) will require ideas we cannot now anticipate. The mind-body problem is so singular that no appeal to the closing of past explanatory gaps justifies optimism. But I remain optimistic nonetheless.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The hard problem of consciousness—why particular experiences feel a certain way—remains unsolved, yet progress is possible through neuroscience and philosophy.
In simple terms: We still lack an explanation for subjective experience.
Key Takeaway
Support interdisciplinary research on consciousness.
Themes
Consciousness
hard problem
neuroscience
philosophy
optimism
Mood
inquisitive
hopeful
analytical
Type
Consciousness:1
Psychology:0
Philosophy of Mind:1
Problem Consciousness:1
Consciousness Solved:0
Problem Conceptually:1
Neuroscience Hard:0
When to use this quote
- academic research
- neuroscience labs
- philosophical debate
- public outreach
- education programs
Key Concepts
explanatory gap
qualia
mind‑body
empirical methods
Questions to Reflect On
- What would a solution to the hard problem change about our view of mind?
- Can we accept mystery while pursuing science?
A Different Perspective
No guarantee that future advances will close the gap.