What Are The Key Arguments In Being You: A New Science Of Consciousness?

2025-12-12 16:59:05 39

3 Answers

Grace
Grace
2025-12-16 01:38:06
Man, 'Being You' blew my mind when I first read it! Anil Seth's whole approach flips traditional consciousness studies on its head—instead of asking 'how does the brain produce consciousness?', he asks 'how does the brain control perception to create consciousness?' It's like realizing you've been watching a magic trick backward. His predictive processing model argues that what we experience isn't raw reality, but the brain's 'best guess' based on sensory inputs and past experiences. That hallucination analogy? Wild stuff—turns out we're all hallucinating all the time, just usually in ways that match reality.

What really stuck with me was his distinction between 'real reality' and 'perceived reality.' The book dives deep into how even basic stuff like color or smell isn't objectively 'out there,' but constructed by our neural wiring. When he describes how stroke patients can perceive impossible objects due to predictive errors, it makes you question everything you take for granted. The active inference framework ties it all together—consciousness isn't a passive reception of data, but an ongoing, dynamic process of testing hypotheses against sensory evidence. Still catch myself staring at ordinary objects sometimes, wondering how much my brain's editing what I see.
Owen
Owen
2025-12-16 11:01:27
Reading 'Being You' felt like having coffee with that one brilliant professor who explains complex ideas without dumbing them down. Seth's central thesis—that consciousness is a controlled hallucination—initially sounded outlandish, but his layered arguments won me over. The biological perspective stood out; he frames consciousness not as some mystical emergent property, but as an evolved survival tool. His work on interoception (how the brain interprets bodily signals) was particularly striking—turns out emotions might just be the brain's interpretations of physiological states, like a sophisticated internal dashboard.

The book excels in debunking common misconceptions, especially about the 'hard problem' of consciousness. Seth argues convincingly that we don't need supernatural explanations—the 'real problem' lies in understanding how specific biological mechanisms produce subjective experience. His experiments with perceptual illusions demonstrate this beautifully. That section where volunteers' self-reported consciousness levels changed based on manipulated heartbeat feedback? Mind-bending evidence that even our sense of self is constructed moment-to-moment.
Kate
Kate
2025-12-16 18:22:49
What makes 'Being You' special is how it bridges neuroscience and everyday experience. Seth's argument that consciousness arises from the brain's constant prediction and correction loops reframes so many phenomena—from optical illusions to psychedelic trips. The book's strength lies in concrete examples: when he explains how color perception varies across species due to different survival needs, it suddenly clicks why absolute reality might not exist. His take on free will is equally provocative, suggesting our sense of agency is just another useful fiction the brain creates. That passage comparing consciousness to a ship's wake—an emergent effect, not a driving force—still gives me chills.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

What it's Like Being Ours
What it's Like Being Ours
Didi and Titi are basically living the same lives, but with little tweaks. Two similar women, one who knows what she wants, and the other who's hesitant. Titi falls in love with a man who also turns out to be a powerful demon? When she finds out, will it affect their relationship and her feelings for him? When Didi crosses paths with Kaivan, an enigmatic man with a magnetic presence, their connection is instant and undeniable. But here's the twist: Didi is human, and Kaivan is about to discover that she is his fated mate, and also his brother's? As their worlds collide, they must navigate the complexities of love, loyalty, and the supernatural. Join Didi and the Titi on an enthralling adventure where passion and destiny intertwine, and the boundaries of what it means to be human are tested.
Not enough ratings
13 Chapters
What Happens After Being Backstabbed?
What Happens After Being Backstabbed?
The day I win the cheerleading championship, the entire arena erupts with cheers for my team. But from the stands, my brother, Nelson Locke, hurls a water bottle straight at me. "You injured Felicia's leg before the performance just so you could win first place? She has leukemia, Victoria! Her dying wish is to become a champion. Yet you tripped her before the competition, all for a trophy! You're selfish. I don't have a sister like you!" My fiance, who also happens to be the sponsor of the competition, steps onto the stage with a cold expression and announces, "You tested positive for illegal substances. You don't deserve this title. You're disqualified." All the fans turn against me. They boycott me entirely—some even go so far as to create a fake memorial portrait of me, print it, and send it to my doorstep. I quietly keep the photo. I'll probably need it soon anyway. It's been three years since I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Knowing I don't have much time left, I choose to become the type of person they always wanted me to be—the perfect sister who loves without question, the well-mannered woman who knows when to keep quiet, and the kind of person who never, ever lies.
8 Chapters
The Alpha's Key
The Alpha's Key
A young witch obsessed with power, an Alpha bound by responsibilities, and a young woman with a mysterious background, their lives intertwined in a web of deceit, lies, and pretense. When the desire to obtain power overrules all logical thought, Nari Montgomery would do anything in order to achieve her dream, even if it means sacrificing what she holds dear. Alpha Romeo Price was deceived by love and cursed by a witch only to be saved by a stranger whose identity may be the cause of his downfall. Annabelle Aoki arrives in a small town and rescues an animal only to be coerced into saving a man who changes her perspective and pushes her to accept who she was meant to be. A prophecy foretold their destiny but that doesn't mean they will end up together. In this story, things are never what they appear.
10
66 Chapters
Why are you           unhappy?
Why are you unhappy?
Anne Jenner has the ability to read another person's emotional index, knowing if that person is happy, sad, or angry... But when Edward Mitchell was next to Anne Jenner, she saw his emotional index change. abnormal changes, even at all times average, even quite low. That means that he does not feel happy when the two are alone. Anne Jenner was recruited by Edward Mitchell to Soul Entertainment, starting his career as an actor. Anne Jenner and Edward Mitchell were in an ambiguous relationship. In Edward Mitchell's mouth, Anne Jenner was his "girlfriend", but she did not feel that way. Although she had doubts and disappointments in her heart, she still chose to trust him. Anne Jenner gradually discovered that Edward Mitchell did not really love her, he would not reply to her messages, nor would he notice her for a long time. Amelinda Ciara, Edward Mitchell's ex-lover returned home after receiving treatment, debuted again as an actress, starred in a movie with Anne Jenner, and intends to return to Edward Mitchell. Anne Jenner discovered that all the girls around Edward Mitchell, including her, have the same temperament as Amelinda Ciara. She was extremely angry, and questioned Edward Mitchell, but only received the answer that a generous amount of money was transferred to a bank account and an implicit ban on all showbiz activities. She left Edward Mitchell, but soon, Edward Mitchell regretted his decision. He finds a way to get her active again and pursues her again.
10
85 Chapters
you, me and what a pity
you, me and what a pity
Frustrated by abusive father and domestic violence, 18 year old Veronica is on run to start a new life on her own. working several part time jobs to pay her bills and save for university. In the long run, she catches the eye of Italian Mafia boss who visits her university during a seminar. Her introvert personality and sad, pessimistic aura around her makes him suspicious and curious about her. and he is determined to find everything about her. is he going to love her, who had been lost in the long run while yearning for it? a journey of doom and downfall, miseries and anguish. will she ever accept him? while he is going to tame her. a dark romance which will be able to bloom or was doomed from the beginning?
10
39 Chapters
Take What You Want
Take What You Want
In my previous life, I was eight months pregnant when my mother-in-law and husband forcibly dragged me to grab decorative gift boxes from the Christmas tree. I told them there was nothing inside, but my mother-in-law slapped me across the face while my husband pulled me into the crowd. A stampede broke out. They clutched their gift boxes and fled to save themselves, while my child and I were trampled to death. They eagerly tore open all the gift boxes with high hopes, only to find exactly nothing, just like I'd warned them. But as I lay dying, I noticed something in the final gift box. A Black Widow spider with an hourglass pattern on its belly crawled onto my mother-in-law's hand. This spider carries deadly venom. Anyone bitten either dies or suffers permanent disability. When I open my eyes again, I'm back on Christmas Day. This time, watching my mother-in-law and husband gear up to fight over those Christmas gift boxes, I won't try to stop them!
11 Chapters

Related Questions

What Inspired The Creation Of Into The New World SNSD?

4 Answers2025-10-18 19:42:34
Bringing 'Into the New World' to life was a vibrant mix of ideals, experiences, and cultural context. The creators drew inspiration from the tumultuous 2000s in South Korea, where a desire for change and youthful optimism permeated the atmosphere. It encapsulated the dreams of a generation yearning for freedom and individuality, reflected in the early stages of K-pop. The members were not just performers; they were emblematic of hope and new beginnings. This idea of rejuvenation resonated deeply, especially as they blended catchy melodies with empowering lyrics. Moreover, each member's personal journey lent authenticity to the narrative. You could feel the synergy of hopes and aspirations manifesting through their harmonies and choreography. This unity amidst diversity suited a society at the brink of rapid transformation, mirroring the challenges and excitement of young people's lives. Each performance felt like an invitation to join them on this journey toward a new era in their musical landscape, one that emphasized embracing oneself and celebrating one's identity. Hearing the anthem alongside grand visuals in their music video touched so many hearts globally. It was like they ushered in a fresh wave of K-pop along with them, intertwining their stories and struggles with ours. That unforgettable feeling of community and shared dreams continues to make 'Into the New World' a timeless anthem that brings fans together, transcending borders and generations.

Are There Any New Adaptations Of Go Go Power Rangers?

3 Answers2025-10-18 01:29:15
The world of 'Go Go Power Rangers' is buzzing with excitement lately, especially with the recent announcements surrounding new adaptations! As a long-time fan, seeing my childhood favorites getting fresh content always fills me with nostalgia. Recently, Netflix and Hasbro have been collaborating on a new live-action series. It promises to blend the classic elements we adore with modern storytelling techniques. The concept of exploring more profound themes, like teamwork and diversity, while maintaining that classic campiness is thrilling! Moreover, the animated series planned to follow the design of the previous shows is also on the horizon. I can't wait to see how they reinterpret the vibrant characters and their epic battles – plus, a few old-school cameos would be a cherry on top! The amazing thing is the way they keep rebooting the brand while keeping its essence intact. So much potential is there for discovering new Ranger teams or even bringing back the ones that defined our childhoods. You bet I’ll be keeping a close eye on these releases because nostalgia hits hard, and seeing the Rangers reimagined for a new generation feels right. Who doesn’t love some epic Zord battles? Ah, and let’s not forget the recent comic book series that delves deeper into the lore of the Rangers. The character development and storytelling really explore the world outside the typical monster-of-the-week format, which many fans have been craving for years. With exciting new adaptations across various media, it's both a great time to be a fan and a way to introduce the franchise to new audiences!

How Does Anime Parasyte Explore Human Consciousness?

6 Answers2025-10-19 12:04:11
'Parasyte', or 'Kiseijuu', is such a fascinating exploration of human consciousness and identity. It dives deep into the psychological implications of having an alien life form literally take over your body, which raises profound questions about what it truly means to be human. The protagonist, Shinichi Izumi, experiences this firsthand when he’s partially infected by a parasite. Initially, he struggles with his new reality, and this blending of human emotions and parasitic instincts creates a unique narrative tension. As the story unfolds, it becomes more than just a battle between humans and parasites; it's a philosophical examination of the self. Shinichi’s internal conflict showcases his search for identity. What makes us human? Is it our consciousness, our emotions, or the connections we forge with others? The parasites are devoid of human emotions, yet they possess intellect and instinct for survival, prompting viewers like myself to ponder the essence of empathy and morality. This interplay between Shinichi’s humanity and the parasite Migi’s cold logic provides rich layers of storytelling. The visual storytelling enhances this, showing us the battle for his soul through vivid action scenes while also giving us these quiet moments of introspection, making it an emotional rollercoaster that resonates long after watching.

Is There An English Dub For You Want A New Mommy? Roger That?

5 Answers2025-10-20 18:20:09
I've dug through release lists, fansub archives, and storefront pages so you don't have to: there is no officially licensed English dub for 'You Want a New Mommy? Roger That?'. From what I can track, this title has remained a pretty niche release — often the fate of short OVAs, special shorts bundled with manga volumes, or region-specific extras. Major Western licensors like the usual suspects never put out a Region A dub or an English-language Blu-ray/DVD listing for it, which usually means the only legal way people outside Japan have been watching it is with subtitles. That said, it hasn’t been completely inaccessible. Enthusiast fansubbing groups and hobby translators have historically picked up titles like this, so you’ll often find subtitled rips, community translations, or fan-made subtitle tracks floating around places where collectors congregate. There are also occasional fan dubs — amateur voice projects posted on video-sharing sites or shared among forums — but those are unofficial and vary wildly in quality. If you prefer polished English performances, those won't match a professional studio dub, but they can be charming in their own DIY way. Why no dub? A lot of tiny factors: limited demand, short runtime, or rights being tangled up in anthology releases. Sometimes a short like 'You Want a New Mommy? Roger That?' appears as part of a larger compilation or as a DVD extra, and licensors decide it isn't worth the cost to commission a dub for a five- or ten-minute piece. If you want to hunt for the cleanest viewing experience, importing a Japanese disc with a subtitle track (or a reliable fansub) tends to be the best route. Communities on sites like MyAnimeList, Reddit, or dedicated retro anime groups can point you to legit sources and alert you if a dub ever arrives. Personally, I find these little oddball titles endearing precisely because they stay niche — subs feel more authentic most of the time, and you catch little cultural jokes that dubs sometimes smooth over. If someday a disc company decides to license and dub it, I’ll be first in line to hear how they handle the dialogue, but until then I’m content reading the subtitles and enjoying the quirks.

What Is The Ideal Cover Timing For New Novels?

3 Answers2025-10-18 18:04:46
Cover timing is such an intriguing topic! If you ask me, the ideal time to launch a new novel largely depends on the genre and audience. For fantasy or sci-fi, launching your book in the spring or fall seems to work like a charm. Readers seem especially eager for immersive worlds right around those times, maybe to escape from the typical summer or winter vibes. For example, launched right before a popular convention, like Comic-Con, can create buzz too, as fans are already in the mood for epic adventures or tales that bring characters to life. Another thing to consider is holiday timing. Many readers dive into novels during the holidays, so aiming for late November or early December can help you catch that wave. Plus, think about seasonal themes; a cozy romance set during winter holiday travels could be perfect for a December release. It’s funny how a well-timed release can just hit differently—like that novel that suddenly becomes the ‘it’ read of the season! Also, aligning with major events, like a film adaptation of a beloved book series, could amplify visibility if the original material comes with a built-in fanbase. Of course, marketing plays a vital role here. Teasing the cover and dropping hints well ahead of launch will build excitement—fans love that anticipation! Even getting involved in online buzz, like discussions or giveaways, can help maximize that timing. All in all, it’s about knowing your audience, understanding the market, and capitalizing on trends. It’s thrilling when everything aligns just right!

What Role Do New Gods Play In Contemporary Anime?

4 Answers2025-10-18 01:18:48
New gods in contemporary anime are fascinating and add layers of complexity to storytelling. For instance, in 'Noragami', we see a blend of traditional deities and modern issues, like loneliness and the desire for recognition. This dynamic creates a narrative where gods aren’t just powerful beings; they're also deeply flawed characters dealing with human emotions. This resonates with viewers, as many of us grapple with feelings of inadequacy and the search for purpose in our lives. The concept of a god struggling as a minor character rather than an omnipotent being allows for profound character development and relatable themes. Moreover, shows like 'My Hero Academia' introduce the notion of inherited powers, where heroes can attain abilities linked to past figures. These new gods aren't always divine; they may embody ideals or traits that remind us of their predecessors. This blend of mythology with contemporary issues keeps the narrative fresh and engaging. It challenges viewers to think about legacy and what it means to be heroic in today’s world. The portrayal of new gods also often reflects societal changes, like increased emphasis on mental health responsiveness. Characters such as Izuku Midoriya show that even those seen as 'great' can struggle, illustrating that vulnerability doesn’t negate strength. Essentially, contemporary anime uses new gods to explore age-old questions through a fresh lens, making us ponder our own existence in a way that feels both ancient and modern.

Are There Any New Thomas The Train Memes To Check Out?

6 Answers2025-10-19 14:01:57
Recently, I stumbled across some hilarious 'Thomas the Tank Engine' memes that totally had me chuckling! One that caught my eye featured Thomas in an uncanny resemblance to pop culture references. There’s this one meme where Thomas is edited to look like he’s in a dramatic horror movie scene, surrounded by shadowy figures and a suspenseful caption. It’s such a wildcard twist to a childhood classic! It really plays with nostalgia while poking fun at how we view trains in adult life, especially with all the anxiety over deadlines. Then there's the classic Thomas with friends meme, where different engines are given modern-day social media hashtags. For instance, you might see Edward being tagged as #GoodVibes and Gordon with #AlwaysLate. It’s just so spot-on, capturing each character’s essence while casual enough to make you laugh out loud! Honestly, trolling through the subreddit dedicated to this stuff feels very cozy—it’s almost like going back to a simpler time where creativity ran free. I couldn't help but share this with my friends; the blend of humor and nostalgia is truly unbeatable! I love that even simple childhood characters can find new life and laughter in our adult humor. If you haven’t taken a dive into these revamped memes, I can't recommend it enough. They definitely bring a playful twist to those train adventures we grew up watching! It’s such a joy to see how these childhood favorites continue to evolve and capture the imagination of new generations.

When Will Goodbye ICU Husband—Hello New Life Get A Movie Adaptation?

5 Answers2025-10-20 13:36:16
I get the urge to speculate about adaptations every time a feel-good title catches fire, and 'Goodbye ICU Husband—Hello New Life' is exactly the sort of story that screams screen potential to me. If we're talking realistic timing, a film adaptation could surface anywhere from a year to several years after a rights deal is struck. The usual chain goes: rights acquisition, script development, attaching talent, financing, pre-production, filming, and post — and any one of those steps can add months or even years depending on whether the original creators want close involvement or there are competing bidders. Streaming platforms have shortened some timelines lately, but film production still needs the right budget and distribution plan to justify condensing a character-driven, emotionally layered narrative into roughly two hours. What makes me hopeful is how quickly heartfelt web novels and slice-of-life romances have been picked up recently; some turn into dramas that give more room to breathe, while others get condensed into films for festivals or streaming movie slates. If the fandom launches a sustained buzz, or if a mid-tier streaming service wants a prestige romance film, the process can accelerate. Casting choices and director attached will shape whether it's a faithful adaptation or a looser take. All that said, I’d love to see it as a tender film with strong performances and careful pacing rather than a rushed cash-in—there’s a warmth and resilience in 'Goodbye ICU Husband—Hello New Life' that deserves thoughtful treatment, and I’ll be refreshing fan forums until an official announcement drops with a goofy mix of hope and impatience.
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status