In recent years, an approach has been emerging which might be called organismic. It seeks to position consciousness, and thus human experience, in the biological processes of the organism. If accepted, it will fundamentally change our selfunderstanding and our understanding of organisms in general.

The approach is seen in different writers, but not always fully carried through, or a particular emphasis may disguise the full implications. The aim here is not to provide a comparative critique, but to try to stabilize some central principles and appreciate their import, and propose a research program.