A new framework evaluates machine consciousness in AI systems, suggesting deeper understanding is needed.
The Cheeney Test proposes a new framework for evaluating machine consciousness based on self-directed meaning generation rather than imitation. Unlike the Turing Test, which measures conversational indistinguishability, the Cheeney Test defines consciousness as the ability of a system to create art for its own purposes using a medium of its own choosing. This paper outlines the limitations of current AI systems, distinguishes between performance and origin, and defines the architectural and philosophical requirements for systems that may meet this threshold.
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Cheeney et al. (2026) studied this question.
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