Evolution and humans: big brain size or use (Evolution)

by dhw, Wednesday, May 24, 2017, 13:26 (2738 days ago) @ David Turell

DAVID: I view the brain as a receiver of consciousness, which the brain through my interaction with it uses as a mechanism for conceptualization […] Consciousness is at my command and does not use the brain. NDE's show there is not a rigid interlock of brain and consciousness.

Thank you for withdrawing your claim that the brain and consciousness are interlocked. Once again, please stop separating your identity (you, your self) from consciousness. According to your belief in dualism and NDEs, “you” survive as yourself in the form of consciousness without brain or body. You ARE your consciousness, which conceptualizes without the brain. The brain therefore does not use you/your consciousness for conceptualization; it is you/your consciousness that conceptualize, using information provided by the brain and body, and then using the brain and body to implement concepts that require implementation. The converse is the materialism you have rejected and concerning which I asked you two questions which you have not answered.

DAVID: The complexities of the human brain allows for a more complex use of the consciousness it receives. Humans have built up math knowledge from the simple invention of a number system. Note that current hunter-gatherers do not have a word for beyond the number five! But we know the capacity is there. Consciousness is not material. We have the ability to expand its use as far as we can.

All agreed. Perhaps you will now answer the questions I asked you: Do you believe that the complexities of the brain gave rise to our enhanced consciousness? Do you believe the complexities of the brain gave rise to advanced theoretical math? If your answer is yes, you are a materialist (which is fine). If your answer is no, then please tell us what you think did give rise to our enhanced consciousness and to advanced theoretical math.