From Max Lang
After reading the discussion on artificial consciousness (8 September, p 18), I wonder what would happen when a conscious machine is switched off and on? Would it regain consciousness, as after a sleep, or would it have a totally new self-awareness?
If it is the latter, and we have destroyed the “self” of a sentient machine, will this be the equivalent of death followed by a new birth? Here’s my alternative test for AI consciousness: resisting being killed via the off switch.
Northampton, UK
