This project explores whether fundamental structures in physics (like symmetry groups or Hilbert space) could exhibit consciousness-like properties. With no existing framework to assess consciousness in non-biological systems, this work could reshape our understanding of the universe and its ethical implications. It would provide tools to evaluate consciousness potential in mathematical and physical structures while avoiding definitive metaphysical claims—offering a systematic approach for physicists, philosophers, and AI ethicists.

The Core Framework

One way to approach this could involve creating ontology-flexible assessment methods that work across different interpretations of reality (e.g., mathematical realism vs. instrumentalism). These would examine structures for features linked to consciousness, such as information integration or self-referential loops, without requiring agreement on what consciousness fundamentally is. For example:

• Cataloging high-dimensional spaces based on their complexity and feedback mechanisms
• Developing comparative metrics to assess emulated experience-like behavior
• Mapping ethical implications if even simple physical operations had minimal awareness

Connections to Existing Work

This proposal extends ideas from three fields but fills key gaps:

• Integrated Information Theory (IIT): Unlike IIT’s focus on causal structures in neural systems, this would apply to fundamental physics.
• Panpsychism: While panpsychism treats consciousness as universally fundamental, this project would create physics-specific assessment tools.
• Quantum consciousness theories: These prioritize brain processes, whereas the proposed framework would cover broader structures like gauge symmetries or spacetime geometry.

Execution Pathways

A phased approach might start with interdisciplinary literature reviews and prototype frameworks, tested through workshops with physicists and philosophers. An MVP could focus on assessing a narrow class of structures (e.g., topological defects in field theories) to refine methodology before scaling to more complex cases. Funding might combine academic grants and institutional support, with revenue later generated through specialized workshops.

By sidestepping metaphysical debates through flexible frameworks, this could advance consciousness studies while informing AI ethics and foundational physics—even if definitive answers remain elusive.