Paper Type
ERF
Abstract
With the advancement of technology, scientists are closer to achieving the goal of replicating the human mind in Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. With an underlying foundation of intellectualism, human consciousness is regarded as a thinking capability that can be transformed into algorithms, enabling both humans and machines to perform tasks. Taking a different approach in viewing consciousness at its core, this paper adopts a techno-philosophical hermeneutics method to provide a philosophical definition of consciousness using the lens of phenomenology. Based on the work of Merleau-Ponty, this paper proposes embodiment as an important part of consciousness, as it provides a live, united experience that machines can not replicate. Based on this argument, the article also looks into and compares current efforts of AI embodiment, where scientists have also attempted to replicate various aspects of human consciousness. Finally, this study emphasizes that although AI may be able to replicate different aspects of human intelligence, these are simulated embodiments as they lack the factor of emotional self-awareness, a sense of subjectivity that a human possesses. In conclusion, this paper ends with a call to prioritize Information Systems (IS) that foster human-AI collaboration to prevent detrimental consequences that can be made by AI-only systems.
Paper Number
1868
Recommended Citation
Nguyen, Bach X. and Chen, Yu, "Consciousness and Embodiment in Artificial Intelligence: A Merleau-Ponty Perspective" (2026). AMCIS 2026 Proceedings. 6.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2026/sig_phil/sig_phil/6
Consciousness and Embodiment in Artificial Intelligence: A Merleau-Ponty Perspective
With the advancement of technology, scientists are closer to achieving the goal of replicating the human mind in Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. With an underlying foundation of intellectualism, human consciousness is regarded as a thinking capability that can be transformed into algorithms, enabling both humans and machines to perform tasks. Taking a different approach in viewing consciousness at its core, this paper adopts a techno-philosophical hermeneutics method to provide a philosophical definition of consciousness using the lens of phenomenology. Based on the work of Merleau-Ponty, this paper proposes embodiment as an important part of consciousness, as it provides a live, united experience that machines can not replicate. Based on this argument, the article also looks into and compares current efforts of AI embodiment, where scientists have also attempted to replicate various aspects of human consciousness. Finally, this study emphasizes that although AI may be able to replicate different aspects of human intelligence, these are simulated embodiments as they lack the factor of emotional self-awareness, a sense of subjectivity that a human possesses. In conclusion, this paper ends with a call to prioritize Information Systems (IS) that foster human-AI collaboration to prevent detrimental consequences that can be made by AI-only systems.
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