AI Consciousness Debate Threatens to Become a Major Societal Divide
A new academic study suggests the debate over AI consciousness could fracture society as deeply as abortion or climate change. While 45% of US respondents believe AI cannot be conscious, 23% think it is possible, with the rest unsure. Experts remain split, with some arguing consciousness requires biology and others suggesting current systems might already possess it. This uncertainty, combined with high financial and ethical stakes, risks polarizing public opinion and hindering informed policy decisions.
