in my last blog, reference was made to the “hard problem of consciousness.” i came across an article written by dr. steven r. cook that was presented on linkedin dated january 14, 2025. the author asks what consciousness is, including a focus on how the bible describes it. i am including several quotations from his thought-provoking article. neuroscience is working to define consciousness, based so often on a materialist perspective, reducing it to the workings of the material brain. i shall offer some thoughts after the quotations from cook’s article in my next blog post.
“from a biblical perspective, consciousness can be understood as the awareness [Italics added] of self, others, and the environment, along with the ability to think, reason, and make moral choices. it encompasses not only intellectual and sensory awareness but also the spiritual awareness that connects humans to god.
“being made in god’s image includes the capacity for rational thought, moral understanding, spiritual perception, and relational interaction.
“consciousness is also tied to the soul and spirit of humans. . . . the ‘breath of life’ (heb. neshama) is often understood to represent the spiritual component imparted by god, making humans distinct from other living creatures. the ‘living being’ (heb. nephesh) signifies a soul with self-awareness, emotions and intellect.
“the origin of consciousness lies in god’s creative act. it was directly imparted to humans when god breathed life into adam. . . . humans possess a spiritual dimension that allows for higher reasoning, creativity, moral decision-making, and communion with god.
“. . . through regeneration, believers are given a renewed spiritual consciousness, enabling them to understand and receive spiritual truths (1 Cor 2:14-16) and have fellowship with god (john 14:26).
“conclusion
“consciousness . . . encompasses intellectual, moral, relational, and spiritual awareness, distinguishing humans from all other creatures. its origin is found in god’s creative act, where he imparted life and a soul to humanity. though marred by sin, consciousness can be restored and elevated through a relationship with god and a renewed mind.”
in my next blog i shall offer a critique of cook’s comments, my thoughts stemming from my research and writings over more than 25 years. in the meantime, i suggest the reader give prayerful thought to cook’s comments and the cited scriptures. he has certainly stimulated my thoughts and enabled me to add to the perspectives i have reached over this lengthy time of study.