The Multiscale Distributed Consciousness Hypothesis: Temporal-Scale Divergence as a Potential Blind Spot in the Detection of Consciousness

Abstract

Version 1.0 of the Multiscale Distributed Consciousness Hypothesis (MDCH). This technical note proposes that the scientific detection of higher-order biological information processing may be affected by a mismatch between the temporal and spatial integration scales of a candidate system and the observational scale used by researchers. It distinguishes a directly testable Weak MDCH from a speculative Strong MDCH concerning phenomenal consciousness. The document defines the Temporal Integration Window, operational criteria, predictions, falsification conditions, alternative explanations, and a staged empirical research programme. It does not claim that plants, forests, insect colonies, or ecosystems are conscious.