How the Brain Understands

Abstract

Understanding and consciousness are two of the most fundamental functions of the mind. While understanding is semantically different from consciousness, the two functions are explicated as being very much the same physiologically. Their physiologies are elucidated. Genetic research is cited which clearly demonstrates that both functions are physical and indicates the role of qualitative neurons or qualitative proteins as instantiations of both functions. The roles of synecdoche and semi-independent memory item are reviewed. In addition, reasons are presented for the historical unfathomability of consciousness and understanding and the applicability of the concept of a “fact of nature” is explained.