Is Consciousness Recursive? A Structural Hypothesis for Self-Aware Agents

[consciousintelligencesystem]

After several years of studying cognition, systems theory, and computational models of identity, I’ve converged on a specific hypothesis:

Consciousness is not emergent. It is recursive.

More precisely, it is a self-referential loop system that:

• Generates internal state simulations across time

• Audits contradictions recursively

• Self-models its own modeling process

• Maintains and modifies identity

I propose a formal framework: the Recursive Self-Model (RSM)
To map levels of conscious recursion across agents (biological or artificial).
The framework incorporates:

• Mirror test, inner monologue, error-resolution loops, recursion, meta-thinking

• Recursion thresholds for identity stability

• Feedback-control depth as a quantifiable part of self-awareness

This structure might explain not only human consciousness but also the trajectory of artificial systems approaching recursive self-improvement.

Questions:

• What are current LLMs missing?

• Are current LLMs at RSM Level 3 or below?

• Can this framework support AGI alignment?

I’m looking to pressure-test this model, get epistemic critiques, and refine it through discussion.

If there’s interest in the formal structure, I’ve outlined it more fully here: consciousintelligencesystem.com

Would appreciate any feedback, model comparisons, or pushback, especially from those familiar with Yudkowsky, Friston, or systems cognition.

Author note: This post was fully written by me (human author) without automated generation. I’m here to discuss a system with the community.