The Origin of Consciousness: Was It the Brain or Consciousness That Came First?
The origin of consciousness has long puzzled philosophers, scientists, and theologians alike. Some argue that the brain is the primary source of consciousness, while others suggest that consciousness existed before the brain. This article explores the fundamental question: did the brain or consciousness come first, and what implications does this have for our understanding of life and the universe?
Consciousness as a Fundamental Force
In my perspective, consciousness and the brain share fundamental similarities. Just as photons are emitted by a flashlight, the brain is merely a conduit for consciousness. A photon is not the end result of light but rather the outcome of energy application and interaction with the environment. Similarly, consciousness operates similarly when it interacts with the environment.
Science teaches us that the body's brain develops any means of conscious thought. It is not just responsible for consciousness but also vital for various biological functions. Metaphysical and religious concepts propose the existence of some other form of consciousness beyond the physical brain. Yet, these concepts often struggle to articulate their ideas without the use of a new term.
Consciousness as the Controller of Matter
Consciousness is often compared to a controller, directing how matter interacts and behaves. In my view, the brain is a result of consciousness rather than the other way around. Before the universe began, consciousness was one and united, then it shattered into infinite fractal pieces of the grand consciousness.
These fractal pieces are the building blocks of all animals and creatures, which explains why many share similar but different features. Most animals possess the basic five senses, with some having more or different ones. They are all parts of the grand consciousness, merging to form larger organisms, from single-celled organisms to multi-organized creatures and even nation-states.
The Evolution of Consciousness
While it might seem that conscious thought is singular and distinct compared to the simple stimulus response of a carrot or potato, a deeper examination of the animal kingdom reveals a gradual development. Sentient consciousness arises gradually and is not an "all-or-nothing" phenomenon. There are different gradations of response to stimuli, from the wiggling of a worm to the complex neural signaling in humans.
Humans have evolved this "sensation of sensing" to a high degree, allowing percepts to become abstract conceptions. However, this did not happen instantaneously. Rather, this “picture” became sharper and more distinct over time. The development of consciousness is a process that requires the coordination of millions of neurons, not a switch that can be flipped on or off instantly.
Implications and Final Thoughts
The brain exists as a physical vessel for consciousness to experience life. Consciousness is the host, with the heart, brain, and gut acting as major intelligence centers. The brain is not the origin of consciousness; instead, it is a manifestation of consciousness.
Consciousness can be gained or lost as in the case of sleep or unconsciousness, but the development of consciousness itself is a much more complex process. It is shaped by the coordination of millions of neurons over time, leading to a gradual refinement and sharpening of perceptions.
Whether the brain or consciousness came first, the fundamental conclusion is that consciousness is a fundamental force that plays a crucial role in the development of life and the universe. Further research is needed to fully understand this complex and fascinating phenomenon.