I, A.I. An interdisciplinary exploration of artificial consciousness

This paper examines the nature of artificial consciousness through an interdisciplinary lens, integrating philosophy, epistemology, and computational theories. Beginning with presocratic thought, such as Protagoras’ relativism and Gorgias’ rhetoric, it contextualizes the epistemological implications of artificial intelligence as inherently subjective, attributing grave importance to this subjectivity. The paper draws parallels between Plato’s cave dwellers and AI systems, arguing that both rely on lossy representations of the world, raising questions about their true understanding and reality. Cartesian and Hegelian frameworks are explored to distinguish between weak and strong artificial intelligence, emphasizing embodied cognition and the moral obligations tied to emergent artificial consciousness. The discussion extends to quantum computing, panpsychism, and the potential of artificial minds to reshape our perception of time and existence. By critically analyzing these perspectives, the paper advocates for a nuanced understanding of artificial consciousness and its ethical, epistemological, and societal implications. It invites readers to reconsider humanity’s evolving relationship with intelligence and sentience.