Is there something like a proper re-construction of a problematic field? Phenomenal consciousness vs. Memory reconsolidation

RAMÍREZ, ADRIAN

Córdoba

Workshop; III Encuentro de filosofía de las ciencias cognitivas y las neurociencias; 2018

Universidad Nacional de Córdoba

Within philosophy of science, Elizabeth Irvine has recently proposed a system of epistemological, methodological, and pragmatic critique of the contemporary science of consciousness, concluding that this field presents insurmountable problems. Some problematic aspects pointed out by Irvine for the study of consciousness also appear to be present in the study of memory reconsolidation (multiplication of rival models, experimental paradigms, protocols, and operationalizations). Can it be said that this area of study also presents insurmountable problems? To test this hypothesis, a comparison between the case of phenomenal consciousness as a scientific object and the case of memory reconsolidation will be made.