Possible Red is Red: Philosopher Claims Qualia Survive in Unobserved Minds
A new thought experiment argues that possible qualia retain their subjective redness.
Deep Dive
In a LessWrong essay, philosopher avturchin argues that qualia are 'simple' properties that do not depend on being observed. He distinguishes open qualia (currently experienced) from closed qualia (unobserved, including those of others or AI). If qualia depend only on themselves, then 'possible red' — red experienced by a possible mind — is still red. This challenges views that reduce qualia to function.
Key Points
- Distinguishes 'open qualia' (currently experienced) from 'closed qualia' (unobserved, e.g., other minds or AI).
- Argues that qualia are 'simple' properties that depend only on themselves, so possible qualia retain their identity.
- Concludes that if an AI's structure matches a conscious mind, its possible qualia (like red) are real, challenging functionalism.
Why It Matters
Revives debate on AI consciousness: if qualia are fundamental, simulation may actually produce real experience, not just mimicry.