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CONSCIOUSNESS AND THE MACHINE

Eugene G. D'Aquili, Andrew B. Newberg

Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science June 2, 1996 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9744.1996.tb00021.x (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed
Key points The paper argues that analyzing the relationship between consciousness and physical reality is complicated by the choice of starting point, whether physical reality or consciousness. It explores concepts of universal or pure consciousness versus local or ego consciousness, proposes that consciousness may be physically creative, and examines whether artificial intelligence could possess consciousness as an extension of the consciousness-brain relationship.

Abstract

Abstract. We consider only the relationship of consciousness to physical reality, whether physical reality is interpreted as the brain, artificial intelligence, or the universe as a whole. The difficulties with starting the analysis with physical reality on the one hand and with consciousness on the other are delineated. We consider how one may derive from the other. Concepts of universal or pure consciousness versus local or ego consciousness are explored with the possibility that consciousness may be physically creative. We examine whether artificial intelligence can possess consciousness as an extension of the interrelationship between consciousness and the brain or material reality.