Asia Consciousness Festival - Panel: Ben Goertzel, Doug Seiden, Mark Greene

About the Festival
Consciousness is a highly interdisciplinary topic that everyone has a first-hand experience with. It is arguably the most challenging topic of science and an area with great value in solving critical issues within our society today. There is an active community of neurobiologists, psychologists, physicists, philosophers, and cognitive scientists that are interested in developing a theory of the underlying biological mechanisms of consciousness, described as the "hard problem" of consciousness. Designers are interested in qualia and phenomenology to establish a basis for aesthetics and "good design." Others in the field of psychology and mind-body medicine are interested in the role of one's consciousness in both mental and physical health. These practitioners devise practices that facilitate natural healing. Still others are interested in the "evolution" of one's consciousness and devise models and practices that facilitate one's "personal evolution" in understanding self, ultimately addressing the big questions such as "who am I" and "why am I here."

The Asia Consciousness Festival hosts a series of events that include conferences, workshops, performances, and exhibitions to raise the awareness of consciousness trends in Hong Kong and Asia. The events will bring together visionaries and leaders in the field of consciousness, spanning neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, cognitive sciences, education, and spirituality. The target audience includes researchers, practitioners, and professionals interested in psychology, consciousness, art, educators, and members of the community at large that are interested in the bigger questions in life as well as improving the quality of life.

The events will serve as a catalyst to increase awareness and stimulate interaction and collaboration. Practical hands-on workshops will also facilitate individuals' personal explorations of their consciousness with an objective of improving their quality of life. Our goal is to make a regional and international impact in this area. Hong Kong has traditionally served as a bridge between east and west as well as a lifestyle trendsetter for Greater China.