Question:
Some scientists say that there is a part of the brain that is responsible for consciousness. If we replicate that part of the brain on a computer, will it too be conscious? Surely an inanimate object can't be conscious, right?
Topics:
Consciousness
Accepted:
August 24, 2016
I think you have to ask what "inanimate" means. If it means what the root word "anima" (Latin for the Gk. "psyche") suggests, then if consciousness requires a psyche or anima, mind or soul, the answer to your third question is 'Right; an inanimate object can't be conscious.' On the other hand if "inanimate" just means "not living", then the answer to your second question might be, "Yes".