What will society think about AI consciousness? Lessons from the animal case.
Lucius Caviola, Jeff Sebo, Jonathan Birch
Trends in Cognitive Sciences June 1, 2025 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2025.06.002 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Commentary Peer reviewed |
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| Key points | Argues that perceptions of AI consciousness are shaped by psychological, social, and economic factors, and that lessons from perceptions of animal consciousness can inform debates about AI moral status, ethical treatment, and future policy. |
Abstract
How will society respond to the idea that artificial intelligence (AI) could be conscious? Drawing on lessons from perceptions of animal consciousness, we highlight psychological, social, and economic factors that shape perceptions of AI consciousness. These insights can inform emerging debates about AI moral status, ethical treatment, and future policy.