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science1d ago
Consciousness Could Be an Ancient Trait Evolved Millions of Years Ago, Not a Human Superpower
- Latest findings argue consciousness may be an ancient trait shared by many species, not just humans.
- ALARM theory outlines three levels of awareness: basic arousal, general alertness, and reflexive self-consciousness.
- Birds show neural activity in the nidopallium caudolaterale that aligns with decisions, not raw light stimuli.
- Researchers argue consciousness can emerge without a traditional cortical structure, aided by birds’ complex connectome.
- Birds’ brains meet several consciousness criteria and show parallels with mammalian systems.
- The study highlights a lack of need for a human-like cortex in achieving awareness.
- Experiments with pigeons showed perceptual shifts that suggest inner experiences influence decisions.
- Roosters’ responses to mirrors indicate self-recognition tendencies in birds.
- Global theories like GNWT and RPT fit avian brains, while IIT’s requirements aren’t met.
- The research suggests consciousness is a mosaic of ancient functions refined across species.
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