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The Ancient Origins of Consciousness: How the Brain Created Experience

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Applied Early-origin (Cambrian) theory

By Todd E. Feinberg and Jon M. Mallatt

Summary

Consciousness originated in Cambrian vertebrates (~520M years ago) with image-forming eyes, complex motor systems, and integrated sensory-motor coordination. Midbrain/brainstem origin, not neocortex. "Neurobiological naturalism" — consciousness evolved from elaboration of sensory maps and integrated valence systems.

Why It Matters

Earliest specific evolutionary origin proposed. Rejects "consciousness requires cortex" view.

Notes

This entry is a seed import from the Phase 1 Knowledge Inventory. It has not yet been manually reviewed.