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>In real life, reward == more life, so, by natural selection, consciousness is that function that preserves the body. Would plants be conscious under that defi
by glenstein 9y ago
>In real life, reward == more life, so, by natural selection, consciousness is that function that preserves the body.
Would plants be conscious under that definition?
- visarga 9y agoYes, even bacteria should be conscious. Cells have a so called "gene regulatory network" that is analogous to a neural network where 'neurons' are genes and signals are chemical molecules. It has as many 'neurons' as genes. Every cell has such a dynamic sensing, acting and learning system allowing it to adapt to the exterior and cooperate or fight. In complex organisms, gene regulatory networks coordinate the development of the body and internal organs. So it has the complexity necessary for consciousness, it's just a small size chemical-based consciousness, but the main ingredients are present - sensing, acting, learning and a goal - to maximize its own life and replicate, and let's not forget the most essential one - it is part of the world, which guides its evolution.
- glenstein 9y agoLate reply, but a couple of questions. (1) Would this mean that human beings in a coma or persistent vegetative state would still be considered conscious, regardless of brain activity, so long as their genes continued to regulate cell activity? (2) does anyone in epigenetics share this view?