Epiphenomenon

Epiphenomenon refers to a secondary phenomenon that is caused by and dependent upon another, more significant phenomenon. It is something that arises as a byproduct of a primary process, but does not itself have any causal influence on the primary process or other events. The term originates from philosophy, particularly in discussions about consciousness and the mind-body problem.

In this philosophical context, consciousness is sometimes described as an epiphenomenon of brain activity. This means that while consciousness exists and is experienced, it is believed to be a non-causal byproduct of the physical processes in the brain. The brain's physical events cause conscious experiences, but conscious experiences do not, in turn, cause further physical events. This view contrasts with theories that grant consciousness a causal role in behavior or thought.

The concept of epiphenomenon can be applied more broadly. For example, in a biological system, a particular trait might be an epiphenomenon if it arises as a necessary consequence of another, more fundamental biological process, but does not contribute to the organism's survival or reproduction. The key characteristic is the lack of independent causal power. An epiphenomenon is a passenger, not a driver.