The Fifth Science

I happen to think consciousness is a sort of pattern, a collection of relationships. If the brain can do it, why not something else too? Who knows what a spirit is? Perhaps just consciousness transferred onto some other medium.”

“We believe consciousness is a force alongside the others in nature, that it is baked into the universe rather than an emergent property. Not only does that mean it could exist on platforms other than brains and electronics, but it goes some way towards explaining what you and I are.”

self-consciousness was the product of a positive feedback loop between perception and reflection, the two eventually amplifying each other

exultant.

But in the presence of someone who appeared to hate them more, he found a sudden courage.

pidgin.

Most humans were not malicious, only drastically misguided and desperate in their loneliness.

In all things, across all avenues, a choice must be made: whether to follow love, truth, or power. That choice will consume the chooser. If he follows only love then his wellbeing will be constantly at the mercy of another, though his highs will be sublime.

He woke every morning at 6, showered, masturbated occasionally (though with enormous guilt),