Easy Problem

Why do we behave as we do?
To solve the “easy problem”, we need to identify each complex neural system that performs computations, producing outputs that result in behaviour. “Easy” is a little tongue in cheek here as it may take a century or two to complete.
These include explaining the ability to discriminate, integrate information, report mental states, focus attention, etc. Easy problems are easy because their solution requires us to specify a mechanism that can perform the function and is consistent with the modern materialistic conception of natural phenomena.

Hard Problem

How do physical processes in the brain give rise to subjective experience?
Answering this is difficult because we have no pre-existing paradigm to find the answer.
The problem is explaining how and why we have qualia or phenomenal experiences—how sensations acquire characteristics, such as colours and tastes.

## Meta Problem Why do we think we have consciousness?
Consciousness itself may be an illusion. If it is, the “hard problem” is more like the easy problem in that we can see where physically in the brain the illusion is manifested.