Introduction

As a Researcher:

My research trajectory is rooted in a profound belief: philosophers of mind, such as myself, should not just be passive observers of advancements in the cognitive sciences. Instead, they ought to deeply engage with these scientific disciplines, immersing themselves in the most recent findings and methodologies. It’s in this rich convergence of philosophical inquiry and scientific exploration where I posit that new and transformative understandings arise, enriching both the philosophy of mind and the broader field of cognitive science. Below are four primary research topics of current interest to me. 

1. Disorders of Consciousness

My research explores the intricacies of consciousness disorders, focusing on clarifying their conceptual boundaries and their implications. Such distinctions are especially critical as they can significantly influence both clinical and ethical decisions. One particularly intriguing concept within this realm is ‘minimal consciousness,’ which denotes a state where a patient displays sporadic yet discernible non-reflexive responses, setting it apart from the unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (i.e., the vegetative state).

2. Morality and Agency of AI

As artificial intelligence burgeons in capabilities and influence, I critically examine the ethical dimensions of AI. My main area of inquiry explores the potential of AI to hold moral status and agency. My research specifically zooms in on the way ordinary people apply moral or psychological terminology to AI.

3. Representational Explanations in Cognitive Science

Through a close examination of the use of representations in cognitive sciences, I aim to offer a philosophical perspective on their nature, significance, and ramifications. My primary interest lies in advocating the idea that representational explanations in cognitive sciences inherently encompass information processing from an evolutionary standpoint, specifically through the lens of information-theoretic teleosemantics.

4. Non-conscious Sensory Perception

While the relationship between phenomenal consciousness and perception remains a hotly debated topic, especially concerning unconscious perception, I advocate that sensory perception can exist outside the realm of consciousness. My argument is underpinned by both philosophical reasoning and empirical findings, particularly those relating to philosophical interpretations of psychophysical laws, such as the Weber-Fechner law. 

As a Teacher:

The seeming chasm between philosophy and science can be transformed into a powerful educational tool. More significantly, I’ve developed the skills and knowledge to guide students in transmuting the intellectual frustrations stemming from this perceived dichotomy into genuine intellectual excitement. A philosophy student grappling with a cognitive psychology article about memory may likely be unacquainted with empirical sciences’ quantified methods. Conversely, a neuroscience student delving into an epistemological discourse on the problem of induction may initially fail to see its relevance, given the absence of an apparent link between philosophical knowledge quandaries and neuroscience. Addressing the former, it’s essential to arm the student with foundational understanding in mathematics and statistics. As for the latter, an instructor should possess a thorough awareness of contemporary philosophical contributions to neuroscience literature. Fortunately, my academic journey equips me to bridge this gap adeptly. Hence, I am poised to guide both philosophy and science students, helping them recognize that seemingly impenetrable or mundane articles can, upon closer scrutiny, be enlightening and deeply engaging.