On consciousness in animals and in artificial intelligence

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• Recent literature claims animals possess consciousness, prompting neurophysiological discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) consciousness.
• Both claims stem from behavioral analyses of animals and AI systems.
• Divergent views exist, from Cartesian dualism denying neuronal mechanisms to those viewing consciousness as understandable cognitive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue that animal consciousness cannot be inferred solely from behavior.
• To emphasize the necessity of understanding neuronal mechanisms for studying animal consciousness.
• To differentiate the study of AI consciousness from human consciousness.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical argument based on existing neurophysiological and cognitive science literature.
• Analysis of the limitations of behavioral evidence in consciousness studies.
• Distinction between neurophysiological and computer science approaches to consciousness.

Main Results:

• Behavioral observation is insufficient for concluding animal consciousness.
• Understanding the neuronal basis of consciousness is crucial but challenging.
• AI consciousness is a distinct field (computer science) with limited relevance to human consciousness.

Conclusions:

• Consciousness in animals requires understanding neuronal mechanisms, supporting the view that these mechanisms are understandable.
• Artificial intelligence consciousness is a separate domain, and its study is unlikely to advance understanding of human consciousness.