Mind as a nested operational architectonics of the brain: Comment on “Neuroontology, neurobiological naturalism, and consciousness: A challenge to scientific reduction and a solution” by Todd E. Feinberg

Abstract

The target paper of Dr. Feinberg [1] is a testimony to an admirable scholarship and deep thoughtfulness. This paper develops a general theoretical framework of nested hierarchy in the brain that allows production of mind with consciousness. The difference between non-nested and nested hierarchies is the following. In a non-nested hierarchy the entities at higher levels of the hierarchy are physically independent from the entities at lower levels and there is strong constraint of higher upon lower levels. In a nested hierarchy, higher levels are physically composed of lower levels, and there is no central control of the system resulting in weak constraint of higher upon lower levels [1]. Due to space limitations of this commentary we will focus on one important issue. Dr. Feinberg stated in his review paper that “the neural hierarchy displays both nested and non-nested features” and that this unique feature of brain organization allows consciousness to be expressed. The critical point here is that multiple regions within the neural hierarchy that are physically connected within the brain, as objectively observed, are not a physically nested system, in a way as for example a cell is physically nested within an organ. At the same time, consciousness, as subjectively experienced, is expressed as a functionally nested and unified system. From these observations it is not clear what in the brain constitutes the nested part of the hierarchy which could support isomorphic hierarchy of conscious mind. We propose that the brain operational architectonics (OA) centered around the notion of operation [2–4] could be helpful here. Understanding of the operation as a process lasting in time and considering its combinatorial nature (increasing complexity), seems especially well suited for understanding and studying the mechanisms of how conscious mind emerges from the brain [4].