Although we process information, we do not do it the way that computers do.” Even to ask the question, he argues, of “whether a computer has captured the essence of human reason is a diversion, if not a trap, because the real question — do humans understand the essence of humans? — cannot be answered or resolved by technology.”

To return to the issue of subjectivity, consider: is the reinstantiated mind the same consciousness as the person we just scanned? But it is not easily resolved, or even readily understood. How do we distinguish a process that is conscious from one that just acts as if it is conscious?We can’t simply ask it. If it says “Hey I’m conscious,” does... See more