Scientists readily point out what the term “consciousness” means. Today, science reigns supreme in explaining the physical world to us. We turn to them for the best explanation even though we admit it’s probably inaccurate. But if consciousness is the seat of our subject experience in the world, then why shouldn’t its definition be as well? Shouldn’t you decide what you’re relationship with the entire universe be?
As human beings, we’ve developed a mass society. From afar, we look identical to little ants, scurrying about. It’s hard to see the value in us from this perspective. But like it or not, like ants, if we don’t cooperate with each other then we simply won’t attain the continuity we need to build a predictable society with novel experiences and outcomes that make life interesting. So, maybe we do need a basic definition of consciousness so that we can all apply its meaning to the larger group and not just our private lives and perspectives.
The answer lies somewhere in between. You and I and everyone else have the right to our speculations insofar that we don’t impose them on others, yet, that’s almost impossible to do as each of our actions affect everyone else in some way or another. But that doesn’t mean that we capitulate to the group as much as argue, debate and conflict with each other within reason. Hopefully reason would dictate that there’s only so much peace and stability that we’re willing to give up over such an issue – at least for now.
Personally, I think consciousness grows and for that reason so does the definition. I don’t have a definition of consciousness. I know that it’s there, that’s its wonderful and that science isn’t the end-all to my understanding of the universe. Freedom is important, or in the very least, some breathing space for us all.
But that is the definition of consciousness. That’s the point I was trying to make. It’s something you do and experience, not read out of science textbook. Compare what you know with what they say, and be honest about it. Live within the means of your wisdom, because in the end, that’s all you can do. It’s all anyone can do. I think.