Articulating Human Consciousness

An Axiological Approach

Abstract

The human genome project, modern brain science, and microbiology have generally succeed in mapping DNA and have brought great insight into understanding the dynamics of human genetics. However, the search for a definable “double helix” that unpacks human consciousness in a similarly definable manner has been largely unsuccessful. The guiding point of this essay is that human consciousness may not be capable of “exploration” in the sense that there is a something like the double helix that can be found if instruments, processes, and measures are sophisticated enough. In the annoying absence of successful “exploration,” our point is to see the great value in “articulation,” the ability to be able to “talk about” in meaningful and productive ways. The “articulation” is led by the insights of Robert S. Hartman. Along the way, we will touch base with the writings of Walker Percy and the iconic personality of Dolly Parton.