Machine consciousness, ambisonics

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review machine consciousness (MC) and machine modelling of consciousness (MMC) with acknowledgement that their study may contribute to understanding of biological consciousness. The death of Peter Fellgett, the first Professor of Cybernetics in the UK, is noted, with a brief reference to his work on infra‐red spectroscopy and slightly more on his work on ambisonics, or surround‐sound audio reproduction. The work of his collaborator in this, Michael Gerzon, is shown to be well represented on the internet.Design/methodology/approachThe aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.FindingsIt is suggested that the evolutionary advantages of consciousness do not get the attention they should and also that reconciliation is needed with the “Cambrian Intelligence” viewpoint of Brooks. Only two fields of activity of Peter Fellgett are mentioned, particularly since his achievements will certainly be featured in a later issue ofKybernetes.Practical implicationsSpeculation about MC may well contribute to understanding of the biological variety as well as to robotics techniques as such. Fellgett's contributions to spectroscopy are immensely valuable in astronomy and elsewhere and his work with Gerzon on audio reproduction is a classic study, even if commercially unsuccessful.Originality/valueIt is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.