The error theory of LLM consciousness: there is no evidence that standard LLMs are conscious
Susan Schneider
Behavioral and Brain Sciences 2026 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x25103920 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that today's LLMs are likely 'AI zombies' rather than conscious, because an error theory explains their consciousness-like behavior as an artifact of scaling that mirrors human conceptual structures. Contends that bio-computers, quantum computers, and neuromorphic systems are more plausible candidates for AI consciousness. |
Abstract
Abstract Are chatbots AI zombies or conscious minds? I suspect they are AI zombies, at least when implemented on today’s standard hardware. I argue that today’s Large Language Mode’s (LLM’s) consciousness-like behaviors do not suggest they are conscious, because there is an error theory – a theory explaining why they behave as if they are conscious in absence of actual felt experience. LLMs function as “crowdsourced neocortices” – as they scale up, they come to mirror human conceptual structures, leading to human-like behaviors, including those involving consciousness. By contrast, bio-computers, quantum computers, and neuromorphic systems present more serious candidates for AI consciousness.