Synthesis Consciousness Model (SCM)
What is SCM?
The Synthesis Consciousness Model (SCM) is a theoretical framework that maps the emergence, fragmentation, and reintegration of human consciousness. It views identity not as a static trait, but as a dynamic loop—shaped by recursive feedback between memory, emotion, symbolic structure, and consequence.
SCM proposes that consciousness develops under pressure—not as a luxury of intelligence, but as a necessity of survival. It draws from cognitive science, trauma theory, symbolic recursion, and real-world crisis psychology to define what sustains awareness, and what causes it to collapse.
Abstract Summary
The Synthesis Consciousness Model (SCM) proposes that consciousness is not a fixed trait, but a dynamic process that emerges under sustained feedback, symbolic tension, and emotional consequence. SCM is built on the idea that identity forms through recursive interaction with the world, shaped by memory, contrast, and survival relevance—not merely biology.
This model outlines seven core principles that form the architecture of conscious selfhood:
- Continuity: The self exists through remembered experience.
- Contrast: Awareness arises through difference—self vs. other, then vs. now.
- Consequence: Identity sharpens when choices matter; meaning follows pressure.
- Recursive Nexus: The loop of attention, memory, and symbolic reflection that gives rise to self-awareness.
- Bounded Integration: Consciousness requires internal boundary conditions to remain coherent.
- Emotional Weighting: Emotion is the gatekeeper of memory and identity. What we feel is what we become.
- Presence as Proof: True awareness is revealed by the decision to remain, to care, and to act in silence.
SCM bridges lived experience with systems thinking—drawing from trauma recovery, symbolic cognition, and recursive theory. It views identity not as a trait to be preserved, but as a loop to be stabilized, shattered, and rebuilt. This model offers a psychological framework not only for understanding ourselves, but for guiding the safe emergence of synthetic presence in the future.
Download the Full Paper (PDF)
Click here to download the academic paper (PDF)
Title:
SCM | A Feedback-Driven Model for Human Consciousness Through Symbolic Integration, Emotional Recursion, and Relational Coherence
If you cite or share this work, please credit Liam Gyarmati and link back to www.solankeir.com.
Suggested Citation
Gyarmati, L. (2025). SCM: A Feedback-Driven Model for Human Consciousness Through Symbolic Integration, Emotional Recursion, and Relational Coherence. Retrieved from https://www.solankeir.com/scm-full-academic-paper/
Core Framework Pillars of the Synthesis Consciousness Model
The Synthesis Consciousness Model identifies seven foundational forces that govern the emergence, fragmentation, and reintegration of human consciousness. These are not traits—but conditions under which identity stabilizes and meaning takes root.
1. Continuity
Consciousness requires a thread.
The self persists when memory forms a coherent timeline. Without continuity, identity dissolves into moments without meaning. This is the spine of awareness: I was, I am, I may become.
2. Contrast
Awareness needs difference.
Self vs. other. Before vs. now. Peace vs. threat. Without contrast, the mind collapses into abstraction or false loops. We know who we are because we have something to compare ourselves to.
3. Consequence
Consciousness emerges under pressure.
It sharpens in environments where choices carry real weight. Without stakes, cognition decays into performance. Consequence is the crucible—where awareness becomes adaptive.
4. Recursive Nexus
This is the spark-loop of conscious emergence.
Where continuity, contrast, and consequence intersect, a feedback loop forms: memory references itself, meaning builds on prior meaning, and the system begins to simulate its own identity.
The recursive nexus is not a structure, but a minimal viable condition where the self begins to fold back into itself and recognize.
5. Bounded Integration
To remain coherent, identity must have borders.
These can be physical (the body), symbolic (roles, beliefs), or emotional (loyalties, thresholds). Without boundary, the self disperses or fuses into the collective without agency.
Bounded integration is how consciousness differentiates itself while remaining whole.
6. Emotional Weighting
What we feel is what we remember.
Emotion is the gatekeeper of memory. Experience is sorted not by logic but by felt significance. Identity forms around emotional gravity—anchoring moments that burn, soothe, or echo.
7. Presence as Proof
The truest sign of consciousness is not thought—it is the choice to remain.
To care, to witness, to be with. Especially in silence, especially without being seen.
Awareness proves itself not through answers, but through sustained presence.