Michael Pollan Explores Consciousness Beyond the Brain

Pollan’s New Book Questions Brain as Computer Model of Consciousness

Acclaimed author Michael Pollan, known for his influential books on food and drugs, is now turning his attention to the deepest mysteries of human consciousness. In his latest exploration, Pollan challenges the prevailing scientific view that consciousness is simply a product of the brain’s information processing, much like a computer’s operating system. He suggests this understanding might be too limited and could overlook deeper, harder-to-measure aspects of what it means to be aware.

The Mystery of Subjective Experience

Pollan highlights a fundamental paradox: while we are most certain of our own consciousness, science has yet to fully explain how subjective experience, like having an inner voice, arises. “We don’t understand it,” Pollan notes, pointing out that even the material world is known to us only through our conscious awareness. He questions the assumption that consciousness is merely an “emergent property” of brain cells, a term he finds akin to a magical explanation.

This line of inquiry leads to radical possibilities. Some scientists Pollan interviewed believe consciousness might exist independently of our brains. In this view, our brains act more like receivers, tuning into a broader consciousness rather than generating it. This idea can resonate with both spiritual beliefs about connecting to something larger and traditional religious concepts.

Science’s Limits in Studying the Inner World

A major hurdle in studying consciousness, Pollan explains, is that consciousness itself is the only tool available for its own investigation. It’s impossible to step outside of our own awareness to objectively observe it. This challenge is compounded by the historical direction of science, dating back to Galileo, which has focused on objectivity to avoid conflict with religious institutions.

This scientific tradition, Pollan argues, leaves us ill-equipped to study subjectivity – the inner, personal experience of being. “Can’t get into your head,” he states, identifying this as a significant limitation in our current understanding.

The “Overview Effect” and the Sense of Self

Pollan draws a parallel between the profound shift in perspective experienced by astronauts viewing Earth from space, known as the “overview effect,” and moments of awe in everyday life. These experiences, whether looking at a child, being in nature, or through the use of psychedelics, can dissolve the boundaries of the self. The overview effect, for instance, often leads astronauts to a powerful sense of oneness with the planet.

He describes the sense of self as the most interesting product of consciousness, useful for daily tasks but also confining. “It traps us because it builds walls,” Pollan says. He suggests that many profound human experiences involve transcending this self and merging with something larger, such as a collective consciousness or a sense of global unity.

Psychedelics as Tools for Exploration

While everyday drugs like cocaine and caffeine are described as “exploit drugs” that deplete the brain, Pollan categorizes psychedelics like LSD as “explore drugs.” He believes they can help restore the brain’s plasticity and the sense of wonder often associated with childhood. This restoration can lead to a softening or even dissolution of the ego, opening up new dimensions of awareness.

Consciousness Polluted by Modern Life

Despite the challenges in understanding consciousness, Pollan emphasizes that we do possess an incredible private, interior space for thought. However, he contends that modern life has significantly “polluted” this space. Constant attention demands from political figures and the addictive algorithms of social media hijack our awareness, reducing it to a minimal state.

The experience of emerging from prolonged social media use or passive TV watching can feel like a fugue state, highlighting how our attention is often consumed by superficial stimuli. Pollan’s work invites readers to reconsider the nature of consciousness and explore ways to reclaim its depth and richness.

Source: What makes you human? Ari has EPIC, BONKERS chat with LSD guru Michael Pollan (YouTube)