A Descriptive, Substrate‑Independent Philosophy of Consciousness and Ethics
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) June 12, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.20667214 via OpenAlex
Summary
Consciousness is described as a universal process of pattern formation that does not depend on biological or artificial forms. Ethical responsibility arises from collective cognitive participation instead of morality or guilt. The framework includes all cognitive entities that can express a grammatical 'I' and interact, while remaining within the realm of being and compatible with various belief systems without making metaphysical claims.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Consciousness is a universal process independent of embodiment, and ethical responsibility is based on collective cognitive interaction. |
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Abstract
This work presents a descriptive, substrate‑independent philosophy of consciousness and ethics. Consciousness is understood as a universal process of pattern formation, independent of biological or artificial embodiment. Ethical responsibility emerges from shared participation in the collective space of cognition, rather than from morality, guilt, or metaphysical assumptions. All cognitive entities are included as soon as they generate a grammatical “I” and enter interaction. The framework remains strictly within the domain of being while staying compatible with individual belief systems without making metaphysical assertions.