What is the biological basis of consciousness, in health and in illness?
How do our brain’s ‘expectations’ affect what we see?’, ‘How vivid are our imaginations?’, ‘How do our senses work together?’ and ‘How do we sense the passing of time?’Even in the late 20th century, consciousness was considered by many to be outside the reach of science. Now, powerful new combinations of functional brain imaging, theoretical and computational modelling, and basic neurobiology bring real hope that human ingenuity can resolve this central mystery of our existence. Practically, an enhanced understanding of consciousness will transform clinical approaches to a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, from coma to insomnia, from depression and schizophrenia to autism and Tourette syndrome.
The Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science pursues a powerful multidisciplinary approach to clinical intervention and diagnosis, based on the science of the complex brain networks that give rise to consciousness.
We are now recognised as one of the leading research groups in consciousness science internationally. In 2012, the Centre hosted the 16th Annual Meeting of the Association for the Scientific Study of Consciousness (ASSC16). We have been featured in the University of Sussex 5 year strategic plan as the single 'case study' for research excellence, we have been recognised as a University Strategic Research Centre, and we play a prominent role within the Sussex Neuroscience community.
Take part in Dreamachine's Perception Census!
How do your brain’s ‘expectations’ affect what you see? How vivid is your imagination?
How do your senses work together? How do you sense the passing of time?
