Consciousness is Pattern Recognition
  This is a proof of the strong AI hypothesis, i.e. that machines can be
conscious. It is a phenomenological proof that pattern-recognition and
subjective consciousness are the same activity in different terms. Therefore,
it proves that essential subjective processes of consciousness are computable,
and identifies significant traits and requirements of a conscious system. Since
Husserl, many philosophers have accepted that consciousness consists of
memories of logical connections between an ego and external objects. These
connections are called "intentions." Pattern recognition systems are achievable
technical artifacts. The proof links this respected introspective philosophical
theory of consciousness with technical art. The proof therefore endorses the
strong AI hypothesis and may therefore also enable a theoretically-grounded
form of artificial intelligence called a "synthetic intentionality," able to
synthesize, generalize, select and repeat intentions. If the pattern
recognition is reflexive, able to operate on the set of intentions, and
flexible, with several methods of synthesizing intentions, an SI may be a
particularly strong form of AI. Similarities and possible applications to
several AI paradigms are discussed. The article then addresses some problems:
The proof's limitations, reflexive cognition, Searles' Chinese room, and how an
SI could "understand" "meanings" and "be creative."
