Mind and Brain

David Chalmers on the Hard Problem of Consciousness

Philosopher David Chalmers is famous for outlining the “hard problem of consciousness.” He says the materialist framework of science will never be able to explain subjective experience.

David Eagleman on Brain’s Secret Life

Neuroscientist David Eagleman says most of the brain’s real action happens below the level of the conscious mind. He calls the brain “a team of rivals,” since different parts of the brain compete against each other.

Steve Paulson on Why Consciousness

How does something as wet and gooshy as the brain produce consciousness, which is immaterial? Steve Paulson reports on the debate among scientists and philosophers.

No creature is more mysterious and amazing than the octopus. Science writer Sy Montgomery talks about her close encounter with octopus consciousness.

Philosopher Alva Noe says it’s a mistake to regard consciousness as strictly a product of our brain. He says consciousness is something we do.

Celebrated jazz pianist Vijay Iyer has a Ph.D. in music cognition and the rare ability to describe the interplay between music and the brain. We talk with Vijay and listen to his music.