The integrated information theory of consciousness: A case of mistaken identity

Abstract

Giulio Tononi's Integrated Information Theory (IIT) proposes explaining consciousness by directly identifying it with integrated information. We examine the construct validity of IIT's measure of consciousness, phi (Φ), by analyzing its formal properties, its relation to key aspects of consciousness, and its co-variation with relevant empirical circumstances. Our analysis shows that IIT's identification of consciousness with the causal efficacy with which differentiated networks accomplish global information transfer (which is what Φ in fact measures) is mistaken. This misidentification has the consequence of requiring the attribution of consciousness to a range of natural systems and artifacts that include, but are not limited to, large-scale electrical power grids, gene-regulation networks, some electronic circuit boards, and social networks. Instead of treating this consequence of the theory as a disconfirmation, IIT embraces it. By regarding these systems as bearers of consciousness ex hypothesi, IIT is led towards the orbit of panpsychist ideation. This departure from science as we know it can be avoided by recognizing the functional misattribution at the heart of IIT's identity claim. We show, for example, what function is actually performed, at least in the human case, by the cortical combination of differentiation with integration that IIT identifies with consciousness. Finally, we examine what lessons may be drawn from IIT's failure to provide a credible account of consciousness for progress in the very active field of research concerned with exploring the phenomenon from formal and neural points of view.

The strength of weak integrated information theory

“…Thus, existing IIT-inspired measures do not provide specific tests of IIT (e.g., tests that distinguish IIT from other possible similar theories); instead, they demonstrate correlations between certain aspects of macroscopic neural activity and the level of consciousness, which have also been recognised as potentially relevant by other theoretical frameworks [10,11]. The combination of IIT's ambitious claims with these difficulties for testing its most specific, distinctive claims have generated considerable confusion and polarisation [12,13], as well as criticism [14][15][16]. With large international projects now underway attempting to pit IIT against competing theories of consciousness [17], it is crucial to clarify the landscape surrounding IIT so that empirical research can be better matched to theoretical claims.…”

From Shorter to Longer Timescales: Converging Integrated Information Theory (IIT) with the Temporo-Spatial Theory of Consciousness (TTC)

“…Indeed, IIT currently predicts that the maximum intrinsic cause-effect power of the PSC must be reached at that timescale rather than on the order of microseconds or multiple seconds [ 1 , 6 , 7 ]. However, beyond that rather discrete timescale of 100–300 ms (theta and alpha frequency range), our experience, in addition to including discrete elements [ 8 , 9 , 10 ], also appears to be composed of longer-term features that work more continuously [ 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 ]: this is, for instance, reflected in the embedding or nesting of short-term phenomenal contents within longer timescales (with delta and slower frequencies) of the ongoing stream of consciousness [ 13 , 15 , 18 , 19 , 20 ].…”

“…As formalized in Φ, integration just refers to the formal integration of information within a system at a specific time point. This involves short-term synchronicity and discreteness, while not allowing long-term diachronicity and continuity of our consciousness [ 11 , 12 ]. Complementing the focus on short-term timescales in IIT by longer-term timescales as a key element of the diachronic and continuous nature of the stream of consciousness is the main objective of our paper.…”

Electromagnetism’s Bridge Across the Explanatory Gap: How a Neuroscience/Physics Collaboration Delivers Explanation Into All Theories of Consciousness

“…The science framework upgrade approach explains why IIT has had so much trouble proving its validity under the current science framework e.g. ( Merker et al, 2021 ). It has had to artificially erect an entrance to (ii) in the form of the many postulates (axioms) upon which its proposals are based.…”