Integrated Information Theory

Integrated Information Theory (IIT) is a theoretical framework that aims to explain consciousness. It suggests that consciousness arises from integrated information within a system. Essentially, for a system to be conscious, it must not only process information but also combine that information in a way that creates a unified experience. The theory proposes a measure called phi (φ) to quantify this integration. Higher phi values indicate a greater level of consciousness. In essence, IIT seeks to understand how different parts of a system work together to generate awareness and subjective experience.