University Calendar
Philosophy for Lunch: The Hard Problem of Consciousness
"The Hard Problem of Consciousness"
Description: Pinch your arm (gently). When you do this, various signals are sent to your brain, causing it to enter into a certain electrochemical state. The result: an experience of pain. But why exactly? Why does a brain in this electrochemical state give rise to an experience of pain––an experience that feels like this? Why doesn’t it give rise to an experience of pleasure or some other experience? And, moreover, why does it give rise to some experience as opposed to no experience at all? This is the hard problem of consciousness. In this P4L, we’ll try to get clear on what this problem is and what it means for consciousness in a physical world.
When?
11:45 AM–12:45 PM
Where?
Schmitt Hall, Room 104
What is P4L?
Students and professors close-read and discuss a few great passages of philosophy.
Who's invited?
No preparation or previous knowledge of philosophy is needed. Everyone is welcome!
Should I bring anything?
Bring a beverage, and if you're hungry, bring your actual lunch.
Brought to you by the Department of Philosophy at Montclair State University.