Question

Where does our consciousness come from?

Answer 1

Neuroscientists believe that, in humans and mammals, the cerebral cortex is the “seat of consciousness,” while the midbrain reticular formation and certain thalamic nuclei may provide gating and other necessary functions of the cortex.

Answer 2

Answer: It depends.

Explanation: The 'modern' concept of consciousness can be attributed to John Locke's Essay Concerning Human Understanding (1690), in which he explains consciousness as "the perception of what passes in a man's own mind." Essentially, thinking about our own thinking. Scientifically, the cerebral cortex in the brain is considered the 'seat of consciousness', while in the midbrain, the reticular formation and thalamic nuclei help the cerebral cortex to function. So, consciousness is thinking about thinking, or a complex pattern of processes in the brain that allow us to have a conscience.