1
|
Pollard-Wright H. The feelings of knowing - fundamental interoceptive patterns (FoK-FIP) system: connecting consciousness to physics. Commun Integr Biol 2023; 16:2260682. [PMID: 37779822 PMCID: PMC10538454 DOI: 10.1080/19420889.2023.2260682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The feelings of knowing - fundamental interoceptive patterns (FoK-FIP) theory is both a theory of the mind and a unification theory. It includes cosmological and cellular frameworks. The cellular frameworks occur through the cosmological frameworks. This framework within a framework approach allows the connection between physics and consciousness to be envisioned in new ways, expanding current understanding and definitions. The cosmological frameworks refer to the astrophysics and theoretical physics constructs (e.g., string theory) that, without the use of mathematical language, conceptually expand the theory. In contrast, the cellular frameworks are the constructs represented by living organism models with DNA. In this way, the FoK-FIP theory represents an efficient framework for understanding consciousness and its phenomena. The transdisciplinary modeling of the FoK-FIP theory creates contextual bridging between classical theory and quantum theory as well as a broad range of empirical research so that biology and information connect, creating new avenues for disease diagnosis, intervention, and prevention. This article intends to render the FoK-FIP theory more robust and accessible for practical application by introducing the FoK-FIP system, which includes figures to promote clarity. Further, the theory aims to stimulate reasoning that challenges current notions about 'life' and the concept of 'self.' Through this process, the theory might contribute to the transdisciplinary collaboration needed to address some of the world's complex issues. It is suggested that a significant contributor to the current complex matters in the world is the lack of understanding of how things are and how they appear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly Pollard-Wright
- Research, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), New York, NY, USA
- Research, National Coalition of Independent Scholars, Brattleboro, VT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Çengel YA. A Concise Account of Information as Meaning Ascribed to Symbols and Its Association with Conscious Mind. ENTROPY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 25:177. [PMID: 36673318 PMCID: PMC9858182 DOI: 10.3390/e25010177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The term information is used in different meanings in different fields of study and daily life, causing misunderstanding and confusion. There is a need to clarify what information is and how it relates to knowledge. It is argued that information is meaning represented by physical symbols such as sights, sounds, and words. Knowledge is meaning that resides in a conscious mind. The basic building blocks of information are symbols and meaning, which cannot be reduced to one another. The symbols of information are the physical media of representation and the means of transmission of information. Without the associated meaning, the symbols of information have no significance since meaning is an ascribed and acquired quality and not an inherent property of the symbols. We can transmit symbols of information but cannot transmit meaning from one mind to another without a common protocol or convention. A concise and cohesive framework for information can be established on the common ground of the mind, meaning, and symbols trio. Using reasoned arguments, logical consistency, and conformity with common experiences and observations as the methodology, this paper offers valuable insights to facilitate clear understanding and unifies several definitions of information into one in a cohesive manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunus A Çengel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
James E, Keppler J, L Robertshaw T, Sessa B. N,N-dimethyltryptamine and Amazonian ayahuasca plant medicine. Hum Psychopharmacol 2022; 37:e2835. [PMID: 35175662 PMCID: PMC9286861 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reports have indicated possible uses of ayahuasca for the treatment of conditions including depression, addictions, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and specific psychoneuroendocrine immune system pathologies. The article assesses potential ayahuasca and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) integration with contemporary healthcare. The review also seeks to provide a summary of selected literature regarding the mechanisms of action of DMT and ayahuasca; and assess to what extent the state of research can explain reports of unusual phenomenology. DESIGN A narrative review. RESULTS Compounds in ayahuasca have been found to bind to serotonergic receptors, glutaminergic receptors, sigma-1 receptors, trace amine-associated receptors, and modulate BDNF expression and the dopaminergic system. Subjective effects are associated with increased delta and theta oscillations in amygdala and hippocampal regions, decreased alpha wave activity in the default mode network, and stimulations of vision-related brain regions particularly in the visual association cortex. Both biological processes and field of consciousness models have been proposed to explain subjective effects of DMT and ayahuasca, however, the evidence supporting the proposed models is not sufficient to make confident conclusions. Ayahuasca plant medicine and DMT represent potentially novel treatment modalities. CONCLUSIONS Further research is required to clarify the mechanisms of action and develop treatments which can be made available to the general public. Integration between healthcare research institutions and reputable practitioners in the Amazon is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward James
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | | | | | - Ben Sessa
- Centre for NeuropsychopharmacologyDivision of Brain SciencesFaculty of MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zlomuzica A, Dere E. Towards an animal model of consciousness based on the platform theory. Behav Brain Res 2022; 419:113695. [PMID: 34856300 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of intellectual capacities has brought forth a continuum of consciousness levels subserved by neuronal networks of varying complexity. Brain pathologies, neurodegenerative, and mental diseases affect conscious cognition and behavior. Although impairments in consciousness are among the most devastating consequences of neurological and mental diseases, valid and reliable animal models of consciousness, that could be used for preclinical research are missing. The platform theory holds that the brain enters a conscious operation mode, whenever mental representations of stimuli, associations, concepts, memories, and experiences are effortfully maintained (in working memory) and actively manipulated. We used the platform theory as a framework and evaluation standard to categorize behavioral paradigms with respect to the level of consciousness involved in task performance. According to the platform theory, a behavioral paradigm involves conscious cognitive operations, when the problem posed is unexpected, novel or requires the maintenance and manipulation of a large amount of information to perform cognitive operations on them. Conscious cognitive operations are associated with a relocation of processing resources and the redirection of attentional focus. A consciousness behavioral test battery is proposed that is composed of tests which are assumed to require higher levels of consciousness as compared to other tasks and paradigms. The consciousness test battery for rodents includes the following tests: Working memory in the radial arm maze, episodic-like memory, prospective memory, detour test, and operant conditioning with concurrent variable-interval variable-ratio schedules. Performance in this test battery can be contrasted with the performance in paradigms and tests that require lower levels of consciousness. Additionally, a second more comprehensive behavioral test battery is proposed to control for behavioral phenotypes not related to consciousness. Our theory could serve as a guidance for the decryption of the neurobiological basis of consciousness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Zlomuzica
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany.
| | - Ekrem Dere
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany; Sorbonne Université. Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, (IBPS), Département UMR 8256: Adaptation Biologique et Vieillissement, UFR des Sciences de la Vie, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie, Bâtiment B, 9 quai Saint Bernard, F-75005 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Debono MW, Souza GM. Plants as electromic plastic interfaces: A mesological approach. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 146:123-133. [PMID: 30826433 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In this manuscript, we propose that plants are eco-plastic and electromic interfaces that can drive emergent intelligent behaviours from synchronized electrical networks. Behind the semantic and anthropocentric problems related by many authors to the extensive use of the terms cognition, intelligence or even 'consciousness' for plants, we suggest a more pragmatic perspective, considering the vegetal world to be a complex biosystemic entity that is able to co-build the world or a form of the world or of significant reality via a set of reciprocal, emerging and confluent interactions. Speaking of adaptive sensory modalities involving perceptual binding or a global state of receptivity nonlinearly leading to cognitive functions, learning capabilities and intelligent behaviours of plants seem to be the more realistic and operational model to describe how plants perceive and treat environmental data. In this study, we strongly suggest that the electrome, which mainly involves constant spontaneous emission of low voltage potentials, is an early marker and a unifying factor of whole plant reactivity in a constantly changing environment and is therefore the key to understanding the cognitive nature of plants. This dynamic coupling enables plants to be knowledge-accumulating systems that are used by evolution to progress and survive, while mesological plasticity is a unique means for plants to interact as subjects with their milieu (umwelt) or natural habitat and to co-signify a possible world.
Collapse
|
6
|
Baluška F, Reber A. Sentience and Consciousness in Single Cells: How the First Minds Emerged in Unicellular Species. Bioessays 2019; 41:e1800229. [PMID: 30714631 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201800229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A reductionistic, bottom-up, cellular-based concept of the origins of sentience and consciousness has been put forward. Because all life is based on cells, any evolutionary theory of the emergence of sentience and consciousness must be grounded in mechanisms that take place in prokaryotes, the simplest unicellular species. It has been posited that subjective awareness is a fundamental property of cellular life. It emerges as an inherent feature of, and contemporaneously with, the very first life-forms. All other varieties of mentation are the result of evolutionary mechanisms based on this singular event. Therefore, all forms of sentience and consciousness evolve from this original instantiation in prokaryotes. It has also been identified that three cellular structures and mechanisms that likely play critical roles here are excitable membranes, oscillating cytoskeletal polymers, and structurally flexible proteins. Finally, basic biophysical principles are proposed to guide those processes that underly the emergence of supracellular sentience from cellular sentience in multicellular organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- František Baluška
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Botany, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Arthur Reber
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Barvitenko N, Lawen A, Aslam M, Pantaleo A, Saldanha C, Skverchinskaya E, Regolini M, Tuszynski JA. Integration of intracellular signaling: Biological analogues of wires, processors and memories organized by a centrosome 3D reference system. Biosystems 2018; 173:191-206. [PMID: 30142359 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myriads of signaling pathways in a single cell function to achieve the highest spatio-temporal integration. Data are accumulating on the role of electromechanical soliton-like waves in signal transduction processes. Theoretical studies strongly suggest feasibility of both classical and quantum computing involving microtubules. AIM A theoretical study of the role of the complex composed of the plasma membrane and the microtubule-based cytoskeleton as a system that transmits, stores and processes information. METHODS Theoretical analysis presented here refers to (i) the Penrose-Hameroff theory of consciousness (Orchestrated Objective Reduction; Orch OR), (ii) the description of the centrosome as a reference system for construction of the 3D map of the cell proposed by Regolini, (iii) the Heimburg-Jackson model of the nerve pulse propagation along axons' lipid bilayer as soliton-like electro-mechanical waves. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The ideas presented in this paper provide a qualitative model for the decision-making processes in a living cell undergoing a differentiation process. OUTLOOK This paper paves the way for the real-time live-cell observation of information processing by microtubule-based cytoskeleton and cell fate decision making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alfons Lawen
- Monash University, School of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Muhammad Aslam
- Medical Clininc I, Cardiology/Angiology, University Hospital, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Antonella Pantaleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Carlota Saldanha
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Bioquimica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Marco Regolini
- Department of Bioengineering and Mathematical Modeling, AudioLogic, Milan, Italy
| | - Jack A Tuszynski
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, IT-10128, Torino, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vallverdú J, Castro O, Mayne R, Talanov M, Levin M, Baluška F, Gunji Y, Dussutour A, Zenil H, Adamatzky A. Slime mould: The fundamental mechanisms of biological cognition. Biosystems 2018; 165:57-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
|
9
|
Baluška F, Mancuso S. Plant Cognition and Behavior: From Environmental Awareness to Synaptic Circuits Navigating Root Apices. MEMORY AND LEARNING IN PLANTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75596-0_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
10
|
Barlow PW. The natural history of consciousness, and the question of whether plants are conscious, in relation to the Hameroff-Penrose quantum-physical 'Orch OR' theory of universal consciousness. Commun Integr Biol 2015; 8:e1041696. [PMID: 26478778 PMCID: PMC4594572 DOI: 10.1080/19420889.2015.1041696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Revised: 03/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Barlow
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Bristol; Bristol Life Sciences Building; Bristol, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Neuron neurotransmitter receptors are in general pentameric. This enables them to form pentagonal components in biological quasicrystals (similar to mathematical aperiodic tilings). As quasicrystals have been proposed to require quantum effects to exist this might introduce such effects as a component of neurotransmission and thus consciousness. Microtubules may play a role in the clustering of the receptors into quasicrystals, thus modulating their function and may even form quasicrystals themselves. Other quaiscrystals in neurons are potentially formed by water, cholera toxin complexes, and the cytoskeletal components actin and ankyrin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Gardiner
- The School of Biological Sciences; The University of Sydney ; Sydney, NSW Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
The appearance of Fibonacci sequences and the golden ratio in plant structures is one of the great outstanding puzzles of biology. Here I suggest that quasicrystals, which naturally pack in the golden ratio, may be ubiquitous in biological systems and introduce the golden ratio into plant phyllotaxy. The appearance of golden ratio-based structures as beautiful indicates that the golden ratio may play a role in the development of consciousness and lead to the aesthetic natural selection of flowering plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Gardiner
- The School of Biological Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|