Artificial consciousness
Inquiry December 23, 2024 DOI: 10.1080/0020174x.2024.2439989 (opens in new tab) via Semantic Scholar
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractDespite widespread agreement that large language models (LLMs) are not conscious, the rational arguments offered to support this conclusion fail to prove their point. This paper examines the main arguments against artificial consciousness in LLMs and finds that none of them succeed in demonstrating what they claim. The author contends that current intuitions against machine consciousness lack adequate rational backing, leaving the question of whether consciousness could arise in an artificial system like a digital computer unresolved by existing reasoning.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Philosophy Computer science |
| Key finding | Argues that the main arguments against artificial consciousness in LLMs fail to demonstrate their intended conclusion, leaving the question of LLM consciousness rationally unresolved. |
Abstract
ABSTRACT Rapid advancements in large language models (LLMs) have renewed interest in the question of whether consciousness can arise in an artificial system, like a digital computer. The general consensus is that LLMs are not conscious. This paper evaluates the main arguments against artificial consciousness in LLMs and argues that none of them show what they intend. However strong our intuitions against artificial consciousness are, they currently lack rational support.