Beyond the Hard Problem: Integrating Philosophy, Neuroscience, and AI in Consciousness Research
Abstract: This article synthesises recent advances in consciousness studies by integrating contemporary philosophical debates, neuroscientific findings, and emerging discourse on artificial intelligence. It critically addresses philosophical issues, including qualia, the Hard problem, panpsychism, and illusionism, in juxtaposition with empirical neuroscientific theories such as Global Workspace Theory (GWT) and Integrated Information Theory (IIT). Moreover, it examines how interdisciplinary approaches have enhanced theoretical clarity and increased empirical testability. Ultimately, it explores the provocative possibility of machine consciousness, examining whether artificial systems can achieve conscious states, offer novel perspectives and bridge diverse theoretical frameworks to advance the study of consciousness.
Keywords: Consciousness, Qualia, Hard Problem, Panpsychism, Illusionism, Neural Correlates of Consciousness, Global Workspace Theory, Integrated Information Theory, Artificial Intelligence, Neurophilosophy, Machine Consciousness
How to Cite?: Dr. Mumun Das, "Beyond the Hard Problem: Integrating Philosophy, Neuroscience, and AI in Consciousness Research", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 419-425, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251231121424, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251231121424