Preliminaries to artificial consciousness: A multidimensional heuristic approach

Area of Science:

• Artificial Consciousness
• Cognitive Science
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• The quest for artificial consciousness faces significant theoretical and empirical hurdles.
• Existing research often relies on binary distinctions (conscious vs. non-conscious), limiting nuanced understanding.
• A clear conceptual framework is essential for advancing artificial consciousness research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a composite, multilevel, and multidimensional model of consciousness as a heuristic research framework.
• To provide a structured approach for artificial consciousness research, avoiding oversimplification.
• To guide the operationalization and empirical study of consciousness constituents and dimensions.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and model development.
• Introduction of a composite, multilevel, and multidimensional framework for consciousness.
• Case study analysis focusing on 'awareness' as a dimension of consciousness.

Main Results:

• A novel model for understanding consciousness as a complex, multifaceted phenomenon.
• Demonstration of how specific dimensions, like awareness, can be pragmatically analyzed.
• A framework that supports the development of testable hypotheses for artificial consciousness.

Conclusions:

• The proposed model offers a balanced and structured approach to artificial consciousness research.
• It facilitates the operationalization and replication of consciousness studies.
• This framework advances the scientific and technical understanding necessary for creating artificial consciousness.