Do computers have consciousness?

[Crulax]

I don't think the number of connections is the main problem. Programs can perform tasks, even to the point of following extensive decision trees to diagnose disease in humans. But there is a difference in kind between performing a decision tree and caring about the outcome. How exactly does one program a machine to care. It can prioritize by following decision trees. It can even follow mega-decision trees to refine sub-decision trees and thus 'learn'. Fine. But consciousness is much more about there being 'someone' there, a nexus of caring about outcomes. Making choices and performing the tasks which someone who cared would, does not equal there being someone there experiencing what we mean by consciousness. Probably better to stick to talking about intelligence when it comes to machines. I agree with Chas that this discussion is premature without an adequate definition of consciousness. If we define it down enough, I'll lose my objections.

Studies done by psychologist have shown that humans are not completely self-aware until around 4-5 years of age. I would propose that if a computer/machine that is capable of the following it is self-aware or conscious.