As we think about problem solving, we are aware of thinking through alternatives; we are conscious about much of our decision making. This raises the argument:

• If we are guided by conscious thinking, and if computers have no consciousness, how could computers ever be intelligent?

But what is the role of our consciousness?

• Neuroscience provides little insight regarding the nature of consciousness.
• In a conversation, we have little idea of what we are doing to identify ideas or form sentences.
• Personal experience: Throughout my schooling (and in the years since),
  • Just before bedtime, I sometimes find myself stuck in working through a problem.
  • I go to sleep.
  • In the morning, a solution often comes to me (or I would wake up at night and know the answer).

Altogether, we have little idea of what consciousness is or how it relates to intelligence.

• Consciousness is a lovely component of human existence, BUT
• any tie between consciousness and intelligence seems speculative at best.

created 8 January 2007 last revised 9 January 2007

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