Joscha Bach's theory posits that phenomenal consciousness arises from a 'cortical conductor' that regulates the activity of cortical structures through reward-driven learning. This conductor integrates experiences into a protocol that allows for reflection and learning, enabling access consciousness. It is not a homunculus but a set of dynamic function approximators that coordinate the distributed activities of the brain, allowing for the generation of a cohesive self model and reflective access to memories.

• Joscha Bach