Soul Computing: A Theoretical Framework and Technical Architecture for Intelligent Agents with Independent Consciousness

The paper introduces the "Soul Computing" framework, which aims to redefine intelligent agents by integrating concepts of independent consciousness and self-identity through advanced AI technologies. It delineates the differences between traditional virtual humans and next-generation intelligent agents, emphasizing the need for an "Intensional" core architecture to facilitate this transition. This framework has significant implications for practitioners in AI, as it challenges existing paradigms and addresses the technical and ethical complexities of developing digital entities with human-like traits.