New work explores why consciousness evolved and what observing birds can teach us about its biological purpose.

An ongoing controversy in philosophy is whether or not we can provide an evolutionary account of consciousness. Can we say that consciousness (i.e., our subjective phenomenal experience) evolved for a ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write on issues in higher ed including access and economic mobility. The humanities have long been recognized for developing ...

Consciousness evolved in stages, starting with basic survival responses like pain and alarm, then expanding into focused awareness and self-reflection. These layers help organisms avoid danger, learn ...

"One Hand Clapping" draws from neuroscience, evolution, philosophy and a rich tapestry of cultural references to examine how Earth's history led to the formation of our own minds. The book reveals the ...