Insect consciousness

Here we propose that at least one invertebrate clade, the insects, has a capacity for the most basic aspect of consciousness: subjective experience. In vertebrates the capacity for subjective experience is supported by integrated structures in the midbrain that create a neural simulation of the state of the mobile animal in space. This integrated and egocentric representation of the world from the animal’s perspective is sufficient for subjective experience. Structures in the insect brain perform analogous functions. Therefore, we argue the insect brain also supports a capacity for subjective experience. In both vertebrates and insects this form of behavioral control system evolved as an efficient solution to basic problems of sensory reafference and true navigation.What insects can tell us about the origins of consciousness Andrew B. Barron and Colin Klein PNAS May 3, 2016 113 (18) 4900-4908; first published April 18, 2016 https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1520084113Insect; Consciousness; Animal consciousness;