If consciousness is an evolved trait then the ‘goal’ of consciousness would be fitness in survival or reproduction. This proposal seems non-controversial if you believe in evolution.

If that is so, why would be presume that any form of life is free of consciousness? There are good reasons to posit lack of consciousness in our victims, but this seems laughably self-serving. Do we ever see a being fail to seek comfort or avoid pain? These along with ignorance are the hallmarks of what we casually refer to as our sentience.

Why would an invertebrate or even a microorganism not qualify? The idea that any life form ‘doesn’t experience pain’ is a pretty big assumption if you ask me. Is there any evidence?


David Harrod (he/him)
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