Holmes’ article reviews some of the research into consciousness that is taking an evolutionary perspective. This makes a refreshing and valuable change to perhaps more conventional approaches to the subject. In each case, the approach taken by the research focuses on one or more classes, diving down into the specifics of individual species as appropriate. Whilst important as an approach, it is striking that each of the researchers identified promotes a slightly different account of the purpose of consciousness. Perhaps the philosophical perspective on consciousness has its merits; indeed, a philosopher’s views are represented in the article too.
Link to article: https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg23431250-300-why-be-conscious-the-improbable-origins-of-our-unique-mind/?cmpid=SOC|NSNS|2017-Echobox
