Is Consciousness Computable? Quantifying Integrated Information Using Algorithmic Information Theory

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Maguire, Phil, Moser, Philippe, Maguire, Rebecca and Griffith, Virgil (2014) Is Consciousness Computable? Quantifying Integrated Information Using Algorithmic Information Theory. In: Proceedings of the 36th Annual Conference of the Cognitive Science Society. Cognitive Science Society. (Submitted)

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Abstract

In this article we review Tononi’s (2008) theory of consciousness as integrated information. We argue that previous formalizations of integrated information (e.g. Griffith, 2014) depend on information loss. Since lossy integration would necessitate continuous damage to existing memories, we propose it is more natural to frame consciousness as a lossless integrative process and provide a formalization of this idea using algorithmic information theory. We prove that complete lossless integration requires noncomputable functions. This result implies
that if unitary consciousness exists, it cannot be modelled computationally.

Item Type:	Book Section
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology > Consciousness
Divisions:	School of Business > Staff Research and Publications
Depositing User:	Caoimhe Ní Mhaicín
Date Deposited:	13 May 2014 09:46
Last Modified:	13 May 2014 09:46
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/1218

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