The C-A Framework: Distinguishing Consciousness from Awareness as an Organisational Phenomenon

This preprint explores the need for a unified conceptual framework for understanding consciousness that can bridge existing divisions between scientific, philosophical, and experiential accounts. Contemporary models often treat consciousness as either an emergent by-product of physical processes or as a phenomenon that resists formal integration altogether, leading to fragmentation across disciplines. The work proposes an interdisciplinary approach that treats consciousness as a fundamental organizing principle rather than a secondary effect, while remaining agnostic to specific metaphysical commitments. By examining recurring patterns across neuroscience, physics, systems theory, and phenomenology, the paper outlines a preliminary framework intended to support clearer dialogue and future empirical investigation. This contribution is presented as an early-stage conceptual foundation. Its aim is not to provide a complete theory, but to establish common ground from which more precise models, mathematical formalisms, and testable hypotheses may later be developed.