Anil Seth is a distinguished British neuroscientist and professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Sussex. He is renowned for his materialist approach to understanding consciousness, positioning him among the most cited scholars in neuroscience and cognitive science globally. Seth’s academic journey began with a BA in Natural Sciences from King’s College, Cambridge, followed by a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Sussex, where he has made significant contributions to the field through over 100 scientific papers and book chapters.
In 2010, Seth co-founded the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science, where he serves as co-director. His leadership has fostered a multidisciplinary environment that integrates insights from mathematics, psychology, and computer science to tackle the complexities of conscious experience. As editor-in-chief of the journal Neuroscience of Consciousness, he has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary discourse on the subject. His commitment to advancing the field is further evidenced by his involvement in various scientific committees and advisory boards, including the Human Mind Project.
Seth’s outreach extends beyond academia; he is a regular contributor to prominent publications such as New Scientist and The Guardian, and his TED talk on consciousness has garnered over 14 million views. His book, “Being You: A New Science of Consciousness,” has received critical acclaim, being recognized as a Book of the Year by several prestigious outlets in 2021. This work encapsulates his innovative perspective on the brain as a predictive machine that constructs our reality.
In addition to his research and writing, Seth has made appearances in media, including the Netflix documentary “The Most Unknown,” where he discusses the biological basis of consciousness. His ongoing projects and public engagements continue to inspire a broader understanding of the mind, making him a leading figure in the quest to unravel the mysteries of conscious experience.