On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti Brainwaves: Are you in there?
Feb 10, 2026
Christof Koch, neuroscientist and consciousness researcher, and Martin Pistorius, author who recovered awareness after years of unresponsiveness, explore the mystery of felt experience. They recount hidden consciousness, how awareness can return, which brain regions matter, and whether AI can truly feel. Short, thought-provoking conversations probe why matter gives rise to love and hate.
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Locked-In Awareness Behind A Coma
- Martin Pistorius spent 13 years appearing unconscious while fully experiencing thoughts and emotions inside his mind.
- He regained recognition after a caregiver noticed consistent eye responses and therapists confirmed understanding.
Experience, Not Behavior, Defines Consciousness
- Christof Koch defines consciousness as any experience that feels like something, separate from self-consciousness.
- He emphasizes many conscious states lack overt behavior, so responsiveness is an unreliable indicator.
Test Brain Activity, Not Just Responses
- Use neuroscientific tools to detect consciousness in unresponsive patients rather than relying on outward signs.
- Assess brain activity to distinguish patients who are conscious but unable to communicate.