Theoretical Physicist Carlo Rovelli Debunks the 'Hard Problem' of Consciousness

AnnaCiaunica · x · 2026-08-08

Theoretical physicist Carlo Rovelli argues in Noema Magazine that the fierce debate surrounding consciousness follows a familiar pattern of cultural resistance. He claims the false "hard problem of consciousness" inherently assumes a metaphysical gap between mind and body.

Drawing parallels to the historical backlash against Darwin's theory of evolution, Rovelli suggests that the reluctance to view consciousness as purely physical stems from human fear of losing our transcendent souls. He asserts that consciousness is not separate from the physical world—our "soul" is of the exact same nature as our body and any other natural phenomenon.

Original post →

More from AGI Musings

AGI Musings channel →