Introduction to Consciousness

ARNE DIETRICH is Associate Professor of Psychology and Chair of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the American University of Beirut, Lebanon. He teaches courses in cognitive neuroscience and philosophical psychology.

'I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Each chapter was a delight, providing an overview of research and pertinent theory. As I read each successive chapter, I found myself absorbed by the material and the simple elegance with which each topic was described.' - Marjorie Collins, Murdoch University, Australia 'This book would provide an appropriate challenge for an Honours level course on consciousness, but would also be a fascinating read for all those who are interested in this intriguing and mysterious aspect of our existence. I enjoyed this book immensely.' - Elizabeth A. Boyle, Psychology Learning& Teaching (The Higher Education Academy)

• PART I: THE NATURE OF CONSCIOUSNESSIntroductionA Brief HistoryBasic PositionsPART II: THE MECHANISM OF CONSCIOUSNESSPhysical MechanismsArtificial IntelligenceNeurocognition and EvolutionPART III: THE CONTENT OF CONSCIOUSNESSPerceptionMemoryEmotionMetacognitionFree WillPART IV: ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESSSleep and DreamsDrugs and other Alternities.