General Theory: the Problems of Construction

Abstract

The author holds that a scientific theory of consciousness can be constructed only within the conceptual framework of a suitable meta-theory. In the paper the key problems of constructing a General Theory (as a kind of meta-theory) are discussed. It is suggested that if we aim to explain Reality in all its complexity, the conceptual framework we construct should take into account three factors – informational, material, and energetic – simultaneously. It is shown how the intellectual products of the different levels, like a theory and meta-theory, relate to each other, and the ways in which they differ. Also, the basic elements of the process of cognition are defined, some fundamental laws and principles are formulated, a non-statistical method of study is presented, and a specific systemic modeling is exemplified. All this enables the author to propound an applied theory of consciousness, and articulate an idea of a new scientific discipline – Interdisciplinary Investigations. The author hopes that the paper will inspire a wide-ranging discussion among the theorists who work in the fields of consciousness studies, artificial intelligence, psychology, psychiatry, and among all those who would like to see a comprehensive paradigm be achieved in these fields in the future.