Assuming there are only two beings in the universe, A and B, separated by a wall. If A applies the Turing Test to B, and it passes, would it be fair for B to then attempt the test on A? In other words, if any test for intelligence, or any test for consciousness, can (or must) be applied by one person/being an another, then how could this work correctly if there are only two beings in the universe?
Consciousness, intelligence, and independent thought, I submit, are social labels and only applicable to others, not ourselves. This is the opposite of Descartes view; to correct his paraphrase: We are because others think we are.
In ourselves, parts of us judge other parts to reach these conclusions to varying degrees. Humans are composite creatures made of independent animals, cells, as well as sub-components on many levels, physical and psychological. In this way it is possible for one 'individual' to be 'social'.
