title: Consciousness.
abstract: A brief review of some current views of consciousness is provided. Edelman's view of there being both 'primary consciousness' and 'higher order consciousness' is supported. The basis for the clinical view that primary consciousness is the result of the dynamic interaction between the cerebral cortex and the brainstem reticular activating system is presented. It is suggested that an audacious theoretical breakthrough is needed in order to advance our understanding of this complex and fascinating problem.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, The Melbourne Neuroscience Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: P G
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Petty