Introduction

What could be more mysterious and enigmatic than consciousness? How can we define it? What are the biological bases that allow us to be actors and spectators of our existence? Are there different types of consciousness? How do pathological conditions modify states of consciousness? What about sleep and dreams? How do medicines and drugs alter states of consciousness?

These are just some of the questions being asked by doctors and researchers today. The answers to these questions lie not only within the realm of neuroscience research, or even the philosophical questioning at the heart of which consciousness has fuelled speculation and interrogation, but above all within the clinical field, since many pathological conditions are characterised by altered states of consciousness. The clinic can in fact provide a window of opportunity for advancing our understanding of this subject, and even more so for stimulating the development of therapeutic approaches.

Extracts from three films will address issues related to consciousness ‘in all its states’. The magnificent film Awakenings, starring Robert de Niro or Robin Williams and based on the book by neurologist Oliver Sakcs, will illustrate the temporary ‘awakening’ of patients plunged into a lethargic state thanks to a drug developed at the time and still used for Parkinson's disease. Cranial trauma, coma and the consequences for behaviour and personality will be explored in Bonhomme. Finally, the highly disturbing ‘Inception’ plunges us into the twists and turns of dreams, going so far as to propose the possibility of interfering with another person's dreams. Dream or reality?

These extracts will be commented on and discussed by experts brought together by the Foundation for the Study of the Central and Peripheral Nervous System (FESN) with the support of Magnoglia, who will also answer questions from the audience.