The ethical impasse of current consciousness science

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Philosophy of Mind
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics

Background:

• Recent surge in media discussions about consciousness across diverse entities.
• Prevalence of claims based on general information processing capacity as a proxy for consciousness.
• Lack of consensus on reliable markers for subjective experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the validity of current consciousness markers used in public discourse.
• To differentiate between information processing capacity and subjective experience in consciousness assessment.
• To assess the limitations of current markers for advancing consciousness theories.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent media claims regarding consciousness.
• Analysis of the theoretical underpinnings of commonly cited consciousness markers.
• Philosophical and neuroscientific critique of information processing as a sole indicator of consciousness.

Main Results:

• Identified that many claims about consciousness are based on markers of general information processing.
• Demonstrated that these markers do not necessarily equate to subjective experience.
• Highlighted the limited relevance of these markers for resolving theoretical debates in consciousness.

Conclusions:

• Current media-driven markers for consciousness are often insufficient for determining subjective experience.
• Distinguishing between information processing and subjective experience is crucial for accurate consciousness assessment.
• Further research is needed to develop more robust markers for subjective experience in diverse systems.