The Mathematical Structure of Integrated Information Theory
Frontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics June 4, 2021 DOI: 10.3389/fams.2020.602973 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractIntegrated Information Theory (IIT) is a leading model of consciousness that aims to describe both the quality and quantity of conscious experience in a physical system like the brain. This paper presents the mathematical structure of the theory, separating core principles from auxiliary tools. It provides a definition of a generalized IIT that includes both IIT 3.0 and Quantum IIT as special cases, offering an axiomatic foundation for future formal research and serving as an introduction for researchers with a formal background.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Proposes a generalized mathematical formulation of Integrated Information Theory that unifies IIT 3.0 and Quantum IIT as special cases. |
Abstract
Integrated Information Theory is one of the leading models of consciousness. It aims to describe both the quality and quantity of the conscious experience of a physical system, such as the brain, in a particular state. In this contribution, we propound the mathematical structure of the theory, separating the essentials from auxiliary formal tools. We provide a definition of a generalized IIT which has IIT 3.0 of Tononi et al., as well as the Quantum IIT introduced by Zanardi et al. as special cases. This provides an axiomatic definition of the theory which may serve as the starting point for future formal investigations and as an introduction suitable for researchers with a formal background.