the easy problem of consciousness

The easy problem of consciousness refers to understanding how the brain processes and produces behaviors, perceptions, and sensations we experience, like recognizing a face or feeling pain. It involves figuring out the neural mechanisms and pathways involved in these functions. This problem is considered "easy" not because it’s simple, but because it’s about explaining observable and measurable aspects of brain activity. In contrast, the "hard problem" is explaining why and how subjective experience—the actual feeling of consciousness—arises. So, the easy problem focuses on the functions and processes, not the subjective experience itself.