Consciousness Science: Phenomena and Mechanisms 2500-PL-PS-FO2-09
This course has not yet been described...
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Term 2025Z:
The aim of this course is to introduce students to key concepts and research in the fields of perception and consciousness. In the first part, we will focus on the processes underlying perceptual experience—both in relation to the external world and to one’s own body—including multisensory integration, interoception, and perception–action loops. The second part will address more general and abstract topics related to consciousness, such as the sense of self, self-continuity, functional and neural accounts of consciousness, and altered states of consciousness. The course is interdisciplinary in nature, combining insights from psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and philosophy of mind. It is based on the presentation of classical phenomena and experiments, current theories, and open research questions. Classes include lectures, discussions, demonstrations of perceptual phenomena, and short student presentations (which make up approximately 20% of the course). Assessment is based on a final test or essay (student’s choice), along with additional activities. |
Term 2025L:
The aim of this course is to introduce students to key concepts and research in the fields of perception and consciousness. In the first part, we will focus on the processes underlying perceptual experience—both in relation to the external world and to one’s own body—including multisensory integration, interoception, and perception–action loops. The second part will address more general and abstract topics related to consciousness, such as the sense of self, self-continuity, functional and neural accounts of consciousness, and altered states of consciousness. The course is interdisciplinary in nature, combining insights from psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and philosophy of mind. It is based on the presentation of classical phenomena and experiments, current theories, and open research questions. Classes take the form of lectures, discussions, and in-class demonstrations of perceptual phenomena. An integral part of the course consists of short presentations prepared by participants as part of the course requirements. Individual presentation topics will be integrated into meetings 2–12, while meetings 13–14 will be fully devoted to presentations and discussion of selected topics. In total, presentations will account for one quarter of the course time. |
Main fields of studies for MISMaP
Type of course
optional courses
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
– the student is familiar with key concepts, phenomena, and methods in the study of perceptual consciousness
– situates consciousness research within the broader context of cognitive science and philosophy of mind
– understands the challenges involved in scientifically explaining subjective experience
Skills
– recognizes the potential for applying studied phenomena and methods in experimental research design
– develops metatheoretical awareness: distinguishes between empirical data, theoretical generalizations, and philosophical interpretations
Attitudes
– appreciates the complexity of perceptual processes and their research potential
– understands that empirical sciences rest on philosophical assumptions, while playing a crucial role in addressing problems in philosophy of mind and cognition
In summary: after completing the course, students should—if the need ever arises—be able to more or less find their way around a consciousness research conference (https://theassc.org). The course is not designed to deepen self-knowledge or provide practical life skills.
Bibliography
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Term 2025Z:
None |
Term 2025L:
None |
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: