Books: Strange Ways
Stephen Cass
IEEE Spectrum April 1, 2007 DOI: 10.1109/mspec.2007.339641 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that self-awareness arises from "strange loops" and that any system able to represent a suite of symbols could develop it, regardless of whether its microlevel is made of neurons or transistors. The author extends this model to the human brain and to the question of whether consciousness can continue after death. |
Abstract
This book how people owe their self-awareness to "strange loops." The author believes that any system capable of representing a suite of symbols could develop self-awareness; it doesn't matter if the microlevel of the strange loop is composed of neurons or transistors. The author carries the concept of "strange loops" in self-awareness to the human brain. Examines what happens when someone dies and explores the realm of carrying on one's consciousness after death. The author's model is based on his theories of how self-awareness can arise out of inanimate atoms.