Belonging as a Primal Sense and Consciousness as the Outcome of Information Source
Belonging as a Primal Sense and Consciousness as the Outcome of Information Source
Belonging as a Primal Sense and Consciousness as the Outcome of Information Source
Human consciousness is a multifaceted phenomenon, influenced by biological, environmental, and social factors. Jackson Cionek's concept of belonging proposes that consciousness emerges from intrinsic neurological processes and also from interactions with external information sources. This article explores how feelings, emotions, and the information environment shape our cognition, brain connectomes, and consequently, our consciousness. Additionally, it discusses the impacts of screen overexposure and misinformation on social networks, proposing a critical reflection on how these factors can disrupt human "quorum sensing" and the sense of informed belonging.
The Biological Basis of Consciousness and Feelings
Consciousness and feelings are products of brain metabolic processes that directly influence our cognitive capacity. From gestation, environmental factors such as diet, stress, and the emotional conditions of the mother can induce epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, which regulate gene expression and set the stage for brain development. These changes affect not only information processing but also the formation and modification of brain connectomes—the neural networks that underpin our ability to think, feel, and react.
The Role of Information Sources in Shaping Consciousness
Information sources—whether social interactions, formal education, or media—play a crucial role in shaping brain connectomes. The informational and emotional environment to which we are exposed can either reinforce or limit our learning potential and cognitive development. However, overexposure to digital stimuli, especially on social networks, can lead to sensory and emotional saturation. This phenomenon, often referred to as "brain rot," results in a preference for instant gratifications and superficial content, at the expense of critical and in-depth analysis.
Misinformation and Its Effect on Human Quorum Sensing
Misinformation, often conveyed in emotionally charged and sensationalist formats, exploits the human tendency to react quickly and superficially. This type of content can disturb what might be called human "quorum sensing"—a concept adapted from biology, where bacteria communicate to coordinate actions based on population density. In the human context, quorum sensing refers to how social interactions and the sense of belonging influence information processing and the formation of collective consciousness. Overexposure to superficial stimuli and misinformation can confuse our critical judgment capabilities, leading to the erosion of a "healthy consciousness."
Implications for a Critical and Informed Sense of Belonging
Jackson Cionek's concept of belonging suggests that consciousness emerges from a shared information source, which is shaped by our social and environmental interactions. Overexposure to screens and misinformation can disrupt this process, weakening our sense of critical and informed belonging. To mitigate these effects, it is essential to promote a more critical awareness of how we consume information and the impact of emotions on this process. Strategies such as media education, promoting analytical content, and reducing exposure time to digital stimuli can help restore the ability for deep and critical reasoning.
References
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These references provide a theoretical basis for understanding the biological, cognitive, and social processes discussed in the article, as well as offering insights into the impacts of technology and misinformation on human consciousness.
