Sentience: The Invention of Consciousness

Nicholas Humphrey has been researching the evolutionary history of consciousness for fifty years. He argues that phenomenal consciousness is a relatively recent evolutionary innovation, present only in warm-blooded creatures, mammals, and birds, and that invertebrates, such as octopuses and bees, are unfeeling zombies. He also suggests that man-made machines may eventually become conscious.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Conscious sensations are the foundation of our sense of self, shaping our perception as psychic beings that exist, are present, and matter. However, the question arises: do these sensations only pertain to humans, or do other animals and future machines also experience them? To delve into this complex inquiry, we require a scientific understanding of consciousness, its nature, and the reasons behind its evolution.

For fifty years, Nicholas Humphrey has dedicated himself to exploring these profound questions. In his extraordinary book, he weaves together an intellectual adventure, cutting-edge science, and his own groundbreaking experiences. Through this journey, he reveals the story of his quest to uncover the evolutionary history of consciousness, from his discovery of blindsight in monkeys after brain damage to his intimate encounters with mountain gorillas in Rwanda.

In his pursuit of understanding, Humphrey has developed a groundbreaking theory of phenomenal consciousness, which he presents in full for the first time in this book. Building upon this theory, he delves into the morally significant question of whether phenomenal consciousness exists in non-human creatures. His conclusions, based on the available evidence, are radical. Contrary to popular and scientific opinion, Humphrey argues that phenomenal consciousness is a relatively recent evolutionary innovation, limited to warm-blooded creatures, mammals, and birds. Invertebrates, despite their intelligence, are devoid of this profound sense of feeling, resembling unfeeling zombies. Even man-made machines, for now, fall within this category.

This revelation challenges our preconceived notions and raises profound ethical and philosophical implications. It prompts us to reevaluate our relationship with other species and our technological advancements. It reminds us of the importance of empathy and compassion, as we strive to understand and respect the consciousness of all beings, regardless of their form.

As we continue to unravel the mysteries of consciousness, Nicholas Humphrey's work serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His dedication to scientific exploration and his willingness to challenge prevailing beliefs have pushed the boundaries of our understanding. Through his remarkable journey, he has shown us that the quest for knowledge is not only about expanding our horizons but also about deepening our empathy and compassion for the world around us.

In conclusion, consciousness is a complex and enigmatic phenomenon that has captivated the minds of scholars and thinkers for centuries. Nicholas Humphrey's groundbreaking work has shed light on the evolutionary history of consciousness and challenged our assumptions about its scope. His theory of phenomenal consciousness provides a new framework for understanding the nature of consciousness and its potential presence in non-human creatures. As we continue to explore the depths of this subject, we must remain open to new ideas and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198858539