Recent studies indicate that consciousness cannot be assessed solely based on behavior, challenging previous assumptions about both artificial intelligence and animal cognition. Researchers from various institutions are shifting their focus towards understanding the internal mechanisms that govern the functioning of brains and computers. Their findings suggest that while current AI systems, such as chatbots engaged in philosophical discussions, do not possess consciousness, there remains a possibility that certain insects, like bees, could be conscious. The research opens the door to future explorations of machine consciousness, raising important questions about the nature of awareness in both biological and artificial entities.
Education & Research
Research Institute
Original from ScienceDaily.com: Scientists are seriously asking if bees and ChatGPT are conscious
Scientists are seriously asking if bees and ChatGPT are conscious
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Components and Hardware Humanoids
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Defense / Security Financial Investments
RobotToday Weekly Briefing August 31 – September 4, 2026
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AI and Robotics
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Research Sensors Magnets
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Robotics Automation AI
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BioRobotics Laboratory, Korea University of Technology and Education
Korea, Republic of (South)
South Korean university research laboratory focusing on haptics, exoskeletons, rehabilitation robotics, and autonomous ground vehicles.
Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL)
United States
VA–Univ. of Pittsburgh research center founded 1994, developing wheelchair robotics and assistive mobility tech for veterans and people with disabilities.
Robotics Education & Competition Foundation
United States
The REC Foundation is a US nonprofit that runs VEX-based robotics and drone competitions reaching 1.1 million students across 70 countries.
Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) 工業技術研究院
Taiwan
Taiwan's leading government-backed applied R&D institute driving industrial and robotics innovation.
Korea Aerospace Research Institute
Korea, Republic of (South)
South Korea's national government aerospace R&D institute leading space launch vehicles, satellite systems, UAVs, and aviation research.
MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)
United States
US deep-sea research institute developing AUVs and ROVs for ocean exploration, including Ventana, Doc Ricketts, and Tethys.
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