On consciousness in animals and in artificial intelligence.
Journal of Neurophysiology April 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00019.2026 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractClaims that animals and artificial intelligence (AI) possess consciousness often rely on behavioral analyses. This paper argues that animal consciousness cannot be inferred from behavior alone; understanding its neuronal mechanisms is necessary, though opinions differ on whether those mechanisms can be understood—from Cartesian dualism denying them to the view that consciousness is a cognitive function whose mechanisms are accessible, which the author supports. AI consciousness, by contrast, is a computer science problem, not a neurophysiological one. Even if AI acquires consciousness, it would be AI-specific and unlike human consciousness, so studying it would not illuminate human consciousness.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Artificial intelligence Consciousness Different sensory perception Memory |
| Key finding | Argues that animal consciousness cannot be inferred from behavior alone and requires understanding of neuronal mechanisms, while AI consciousness would be a separate, AI-specific phenomenon unlikely to inform human consciousness. |
Abstract
In recent years, numerous publications have emerged claiming that animals possess consciousness. Moreover, neurophysiological literature has discussed the possible existence of consciousness in artificial intelligence (AI). Both ideas stem from analyses of the behavior of animals and AI systems. Here, I argue that it is impossible to draw conclusions about animal consciousness based solely on their behavior. Addressing the question of animal consciousness requires an understanding of its neuronal mechanisms, and the challenge lies in whether these mechanisms can be understood. Views on this issue diverge widely, ranging from Cartesian dualism, which denies any neuronal mechanisms of consciousness, to the opposing position that consciousness is one of cognitive functions whose underlying mechanisms can be understood. Here, I support the latter view. In contrast, the problem of AI consciousness belongs to the field of computer science rather than neurophysiology. Even if artificial intelligence were to acquire consciousness in the future, it would be an AI-specific form of consciousness bearing little relation to human consciousness. Consequently, insights into the mechanisms underlying AI consciousness are unlikely to advance our understanding of human consciousness.