New Books Network Alan J. McComas, "Consciousness: The Road to Reductionism" (American Scientist, 2025)
Feb 27, 2026
Alan J. McComas, emeritus professor of medicine and neurologist, explains consciousness as self-awareness rooted in brain mechanisms. He traces reductionism from anatomy to chemistry, discusses neural timing and the illusion of free will, single-neuron recordings, evolution of awareness, and why memory and arousal systems matter. He also critiques dualism and speculative theories.
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Car Engine Analogy For Reductionism
- McComas describes using a car-under-the-hood analogy to explain reductionism: inspect parts, then pistons, then chemistry to explain function.
- He uses historical progression from anatomy to single-neuron physiology to show how deeper levels reveal mechanisms.
Consciousness As Awareness Of Self
- Consciousness can be usefully defined as an awareness of self rather than a single unified phenomenon.
- McComas traces reductionism from anatomy to neurons and chemistry, comparing probing a car engine to dissecting brain mechanisms.
Brain Activity Precedes Reported Intention
- Neural activity often precedes reported conscious intention, undermining naive notions of free will.
- McComas cites Benjamin Libet's EEG readiness potential showing brain signals begin before subjects report the desire to move.
