Frankish, K.
Neuroethics 17, 28 (2024).
Abstract
Illusionism is a revisionary view of consciousness, which denies the existence of the phenomenal properties traditionally thought to render experience conscious. The view has theoretical attractions, but some think it also has objectionable ethical implications. They take illusionists to be denying the existence of consciousness itself, or at least of the thing that gives consciousness its ethical value, and thus as undermining our established ethical attitudes. This article responds to this objection. I argue that, properly understood, illusionism neither denies the existence of consciousness nor entails that consciousness does not ground ethical value. It merely offers a different account of what consciousness is and why it grounds ethical value. The article goes on to argue that the theoretical revision proposed by illusionists does have some indirect implications for our ethical attitudes but that these are wholly attractive and progressive ones. The illusionist perspective on consciousness promises to make ethical decision making easier and to extend the scope of our ethical concern. Illusionism is good news.
The article is free, and linked above.
Here are some important points:
The illusionist perspective argues that our conscious experiences and choices are not the result of free will, but rather the product of unconscious neural processes and external factors beyond our control. This view suggests that we should shift our focus from solely blaming individuals for their actions to considering the external factors (e.g., social structures, environmental influences) that shape behavior. Ethicists must reevaluate the concept of individual responsibility and moral condemnation, as people's choices and actions may not be entirely their own. Instead, a more nuanced and empathetic approach that acknowledges the complex interplay of forces influencing human behavior is necessary for ethical decision-making.
Moreover, the illusionist perspective has the potential to expand the scope of our ethical concern. If conscious experiences are not real in the way we typically assume, then the boundaries of moral consideration may need to be extended beyond just conscious beings. This could have significant implications for ethical debates surrounding the treatment of non-human animals, artificial intelligence, and even the environment. Ethicists must grapple with these profound questions as our understanding of consciousness evolves.
