Will Computers Ever Truly Develop Consciousness, Emotions, or Awareness?

Mussa Shehai –  Discussion 3 –  Artificial Intelligence This idea of computer consciousness and awareness has been a common theme in many science fiction movies. But is there any science behind this idea or is it purely fiction? Do computers think and is their "intelligence" approaching that of humans? I would argue computers cannot think as humans and will not develop consciousness, emotions or awareness because they are programmed machines designed to function within narrow parameters of logical computation devoid from emotional intelligence, intentions (meaning), free will, cognitive dissonance and the understanding the nuance of human language. Neurosurgeon Michael Egnor (on his blog, March 31, 2011) raises vital questions “What do we mean by “think”? We mean mental act. What are characteristics of mental act? Several plausible characteristics have been proposed – free will, restricted access (only the thinker experiences his thoughts), incorrigibility (only the think...