Can we build a conscious machine?

TL;DR

This paper explores the possibility of creating a conscious machine by designing a hybrid system that combines evolving biological brain structures with digital control, aiming to understand consciousness through experimental simulation.

Contribution

It proposes a novel hybrid system integrating biological and digital components to simulate brain evolution and investigate consciousness emergence.

Findings

Hybrid system design for brain evolution

Potential for training to trigger consciousness

Integration of neuroelectrodynamics in system modeling

Abstract

The underlying physiological mechanisms of generating conscious states are still unknown. To make progress on the problem of consciousness, we will need to experimentally design a system that evolves in a similar way our brains do. Recent experimental data show that the multiscale nature of the evolving human brain can be implemented by reprogramming human cells. A hybrid system can be designed to include an evolving brain equipped with digital computers that maintain homeostasis and provide the right amount of nutrients and oxygen for the brain growth. Shaping the structure of the evolving brain will be progressively achieved by controlling spatial organization of various types of cells. Following a specific program, the evolving brain can be trained using substitutional reality to learn and experience live scenes. We already know from neuroelectrodynamics that meaningful information in the brain is electrically (wirelessly) read out and written fast in neurons and synapses at the molecular (protein) level during the generation of action potentials and synaptic activities. Since with training, meaningful information accumulates and is electrically integrated in the brain, one can predict, that this gradual process of training will trigger a tipping point for conscious experience to emerge in the hybrid system.