Not adding machines...
Hi Guys
Phil an adding machine can't be conscious because it isn't programmed for it. But our brains are programmed for it - even if it is due to hard-wiring it in.
If we nanoteched brain structured robot controllers and then allowed them to interact with our data-rich world, then we might go someways towards a conscious machine.
Personally I think Penrose is barking up the wrong tree, but there's definitely some kind of quantum thing happening - analogous to an EB condensate? That would explain the "unity" of our awareness of self and world.
Adam