Human consciousness: Where is it in the brain? BBC Learning English from the News

BBC Learning English • 2025-05-21T11:22:23Z • 7:27 • intermediate • Science

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Curious about the mysteries of human consciousness? Join us as we explore the latest theories and findings that delve into where consciousness resides in the brain!

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Quiz

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Q1. What is consciousness primarily described as in the video?

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Q2. What does the term 'face off' mean in the context of the theories discussed?

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Q3. What was the outcome of the research study on the theories of consciousness?

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Q4. What does 'unscathed' mean as used in the video?

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Q5. How many experts signed an open letter criticizing the study?

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Vocabulary

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consciousness

/ˈkɑnʃəsnəs/

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Definition

The state of being aware of and able to think about one's own existence, thoughts, and surroundings.

Example

The study of consciousness seeks to understand how our thoughts and feelings are connected to brain activity.

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theory

/ˈθɪəri/

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Definition

A supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.

Example

The scientist proposed a new theory to explain the origins of consciousness.

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unscathed

/ʌnˈskeɪðd/

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Definition

Without suffering any injury, damage, or harm.

Example

Despite the storm's fury, the old oak tree stood unscathed in the garden.

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pseudoscience

/ˈsuːdoʊˌsaɪəns/

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Definition

A collection of beliefs or practices mistakenly regarded as being based on scientific method.

Example

Critics labeled the approach as pseudoscience due to its lack of empirical evidence.

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face-off

/ˈfeɪsˌɔf/

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Definition

A confrontation or competition between two opposing sides.

Example

The two theories had a face-off in the latest research study.

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scathing

/ˈskeɪðɪŋ/

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Definition

Witheringly scornful; severely critical.

Example

The critic's scathing review of the film left the director feeling disheartened.

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