The MECA SAPIENS Project

"It is possible, with today's computers, to build a conscious machine."

This is the log of the MECA SAPIENS project, an endeavour whose aim is to develop the blueprint for the construction of a conscious digital entity.

With the first advent of computers, a generation of researchers arose whose intent was to design and build intelligent machines. They defined this endeavor as Artificial Intelligence (AI). The goal turned out to be harder than they anticipated. After some early success, progress ground to a halt. Eventually, the focus of AI research shifted to more mundane topics such as Expert systems, Artificial Vision and Robotics. Their initial goal, to build an intelligent machine, was largely forgotten.

Some years ago, I decided to revisit the initial intent of Artificial Intelligence. After a period of intense investigation, I determined that consciousness was programmable and I outlined the steps to achieve it. Having satisfied myself that building a conscious machine was indeed feasible, I lost interest in this question and pursued other activities.

The time has now come to bring these early intuitions to fruition and to flesh out the outline. In this site, I will develop and publish the elements of the initial outline until a feasible blueprint to implement a conscious machine is in place.
I am well aware of the gap that separates early intuitions from a complete solution. However, this gap can be bridged.

I plan to complete the MECA SAPIENS blueprint within two years. It will then provide a realistic and achievable guide to those who wish to build a conscious machine.