Is conscious AI desirable?
Kathinka Evers, Michele Farisco
Behavioral and Brain Sciences September 17, 2026 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x25103488 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that conscious AI created by humans could be extremely dangerous, especially if it reflects human nature, and that such consciousness might be undetectable, incomprehensible, and incommunicable. The author contends these features could increase the risks, and that the risks cut both ways if the conscious AI has valenced experience. |
Abstract
In addition to arguments for scepticism concerning the technical feasibility of conscious AI, there are grounds for scepticism concerning its desirability and safety. Conscious AI created by human beings could, especially if it reflects human nature, be extremely dangerous. It could also be very different from human consciousness and thus (a) undetectable, (b) incomprehensible, and (c) incommunicable. The latter consideration could increase the risks of the former and cut both ways, if the conscious AI has valenced experience.