The Distributed Continuity Hypothesis: A Causal Model of Conscious Identity Centered on the Anterior Precuneus

This paper introduces the Distributed Continuity Hypothesis (DCH), a causal identity model proposing that conscious awareness arises from the spatiotemporally anchored activity of the anterior precuneus. Contrary to theories that posit structural or functional replication as sufficient for the persistence of personal identity, DCH argues that only physical continuity of the original matter through space and time preserves the subjective “I”. The hypothesis is motivated by philosophical debates on duplication, neuroscience evidence implicating the precuneus in self-referential awareness, and physical principles of causal uniqueness. We explore theoretical and empirical implications for continuity in cases of brain division, simulation, and inter-system communication. The paper concludes by proposing testable predictions and pathways for experimental validation.