Artificial Intelligence: Prospects for Consciousness Emergence
Voprosy Filosofii November 4, 2024 Ilya Kanaev, Ella Dryaeva
Whether an artificial intelligence system can attain human consciousness is examined by critically reviewing neuroscience, anthropology, and philosophy. The authors distinguish theoretical from instrumental approaches to assessing AI consciousness. Drawing on Global Workspace Theory, Integrated Information Theory, Spatiotemporal Theory, and Evolutionary Theory of Consciousness, they argue that consciousness in a material system requires an integral architecture, adaptability, and self-control. Instrumental tests can only evaluate consciousness through real-world behavior, revealing limitations and risks of anthropomorphic perceptions. The authors advocate synthesizing theoretical and instrumental approaches, propose clear criteria for determining AI consciousness, and consider ethical implications and potential challenges if AI systems become conscious.