I think it will take a long time for normal AI to progress to the point of self-aware. The leap of progress in AI will probably via alternative route, such as

I think it will take a long time for normal AI to progress to the point of self-aware. The leap of progress in AI will probably via alternative route, such as cyborg tech. It's too complicate to build an AI from scratch; however, human brain has evolved beautifully. It is not inconceivable to scan a brain's interconnectivity to "upload" its entirety into a vast computer. The circuitry of the brain (neural net) can be simulated and run the upload image. The "electronic brain" cyborgic AI can become self aware easily. The basic mechanic of the circuitry of the brain is relatively easier to understand, neurons and synapses. It's the vast connectivity that's difficult to understand. Scanning a live brain short-circuits the problem.