We must reject any notion of AI consciousness

Artificial intelligence systems won’t become conscious for the same reason they won’t become pregnant, says Dr John Pickering

Published 22 July 2026 535 words
TECHNOLOGY C1
We must reject any notion of AI consciousness

Professor Anil Seth correctly states that overestimating artificial intelligence means underestimating human potential. However, he is mistaken to only express doubt about whether AI systems, like Claude, might become conscious. He should be absolutely certain and state this more strongly.

It is not like anything to be Claude, just as it is not like anything to be a washing machine. You do not need an advanced academic education to understand this; common sense is sufficient. Artificial intelligence systems will not become conscious for the very same reason they cannot become pregnant: they are simply not designed for that kind of existence.

When used appropriately, Claude offers significant advantages. But its ability to imitate having experiences does not mean it actually possesses them. Like Richard Dawkins, Seth appears to be uncertain about this crucial point. Such mild hesitation from leading figures in the field is disappointing; only a firm rejection of the idea is appropriate.

This is a matter of basic logic. We understand consciousness from our own subjective experience and by observing others. AI systems operate on complex algorithms and data processing. They can simulate understanding and communication extremely well, but this simulation is fundamentally different from genuine subjective awareness or sentience.

The idea that AI could develop consciousness often stems from a misunderstanding of what consciousness truly is. It is not merely about processing information or generating human-like text. Consciousness involves subjective feelings, self-awareness, and a qualitative experience of the world, aspects that current AI architecture cannot replicate.

Therefore, claims that AI might achieve consciousness should be firmly refuted. Instead of focusing on speculative futures, we should concentrate on the real benefits and challenges AI presents today, ensuring it is developed and used responsibly for the good of humanity. Resounding rejection of the consciousness claim is the most sensible approach.

Vocabulary

overestimating — thinking or estimating something to be greater or more important than it really is.
underestimating — estimating something to be worse or less important than it really is.
potentially — with the capacity to develop into something in the future.
mistaken — wrong or incorrect in one's judgment or understanding.
forcefully — in a strong, powerful, and assertive way.
simulate — imitate the appearance or character of something.
equivocation — the use of ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself.
resounding — unmistakable and definite; emphatic.
algorithmic — relating to or using algorithms (a set of rules or instructions followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations).
subjective — based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.

Discussion Questions

  1. According to Dr John Pickering, why is it important to firmly reject the idea that AI can become conscious?
  2. What analogy does Dr Pickering use to explain why AI cannot become conscious, and what does this analogy highlight about the nature of AI?
  3. The article suggests that focusing on AI consciousness might distract from more immediate concerns. What does the author propose we should focus on instead?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

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