Ashkan Farhadi

The Evolution of Consciousness Theories

Ashkan Farhadi

Consciousness is typically understood as awareness of one's environment and self, but defining it remains challenging. Several major theories—such as those viewing consciousness as information integration, requiring agency, being graded, or equating it with awareness content—are reviewed and compared, focusing on awareness, attention, and sense of self. These theories are then interpreted in relation to artificial intelligence to identify what distinguishes AI from natural intelligence. The review highlights ongoing debates about the boundaries of consciousness, especially given recent AI advances.

DOI: 10.32388/pn41x4.2 (opens in new tab)

Can AI Ever Become Conscious? Can AI Ever Become Conscious?

Ashkan Farhadi preprint

Alan Turing's prediction that computers would one day fool humans in conversation has largely come true, but he doubted machines could ever be self-aware. Recent AI advances have revived debate about whether computers can achieve consciousness or a sense of agency. The answer depends on the theory of consciousness used: Integrated Information Theory equates consciousness with information processing, while Higher-Order Thought theory includes self-awareness and intentionality. This manuscript reviews and compares major theories of consciousness, focusing on awareness, attention, and the self, and examines whether AI technologies like machine learning and neural networks might enable some degree of consciousness or agency.

DOI: 10.20944/preprints202502.1164.v1 (opens in new tab)