The illusion of shared reality | Anil Seth & Jonny Thomson
November 10, 2025
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1:12:16Now PlayingThe illusion of shared reality | Anil Seth & Jonny Thomson
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“Consciousness is fundamental. It's a fundamental property of the world that we inhabit, a fundamental property of the universe.”
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What does it mean to be conscious, and why does it feel like something to be you? Neuroscientist Anil Seth argues that consciousness isn’t a mysterious spark but a deeply biological process, one that depends on prediction, perception, and the body’s constant negotiation with the world.
In this conversation with philosopher Jonny Thomson, he explores how our brains don’t passively observe reality, but rather actively construct it.
Consciousness in the future and AI
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About Anil Seth:
Anil Seth is a neuroscientist, author, and public speaker who has pioneered research into the brain basis of consciousness for more than 20 years. He is the author of Being You: A New Science of Consciousness.
About Jonny Thomson:
Jonny Thomson taught philosophy in Oxford for more than a decade before turning to writing full-time. He’s a columnist at Big Think and is the award-winning, bestselling author of three books that have been translated into 22 languages.
Jonny is also the founder of Mini Philosophy, a social network of around two million curious, intelligent minds. He's known all over the world for making philosophy accessible, relatable, and fun.
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