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

by David Turell , Wednesday, May 24, 2017, 18:45 (2738 days ago) @ dhw

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.

dhw: 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.

To repeat, I don't think an H. habilis use of consciousness was as broad or effective or complete, as H. erectus, as H. neanderthalis or finally H. sapiens. Our use of consciousness must have become more enhanced as the brain became larger and more complex. It is a receiver, but I am not implying that there are lesser and more advanced levels of consciousness. Consciousness is a single entity, one level. The ability to use consciousness is what advances as the brain becomes more complex. You missed the point about hunter-gatherers. Cultural advancement plays a huge role. Newton and Leibniz had to invent calculus to get to where we are now in math. For the h-g's the capacity was always there. It is a matter of accumulating discoveries in thought and concepts. I am a dualist.