Subscribe now

Mind

How does consciousness arise? A 25-year-old bet has now been decided

Twenty-five years ago, a neuroscientist and a philosopher bet a case of fine wine on whether scientists would have cracked the neural basis of consciousness by 2023. Now, one of them conceded the prize

By Alexis Wnuk

26 June 2023

Neuronal network with electrical activity of neuron cells 3D rendering illustration. Neuroscience, neurology, nervous system and impulse, brain activity, microbiology concepts. Artist vision.

Researchers are still looking for brain cells that give rise consciousness

Shutterstock/MattL_Images

It is Friday night in New York City. Nearly a thousand people are packed into a theatre, eyes glued to the stage, the atmosphere electric. The crowd isn’t gathered here for a stand-up comedian or musician – instead they are waiting for an answer.

That is because 25 years ago, on 20 June 1998, a neuroscientist and a philosopher made a bet. Christof Koch, now at the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle, wagered that scientists would have discovered the neural basis of consciousness – the…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account