Integration² (I²)

The theory paper. Proposes that phenomenal consciousness is identical with the recursive integration loop, provides a two-factor model distinguishing loop existence from loop richness, and addresses standard objections including the hard problem, the unity of consciousness, and the substrate question.

A companion paper to the theory paper. Presents a method for classifying candidate conscious systems by architecture rather than substrate, and works through a five-level taxonomy as an example: from no integration, through environmental recursion, to internal loops with increasingly rich downstream processing. Discusses permutations, counterexamples, and open questions raised by applying the taxonomy across biological and artificial systems.

A companion paper addressing a question the theory paper leaves open: what distinguishes consciousness-relevant integration from ordinary recurrent state update? Argues the two are distinct operations that compose, specifies three criteria for genuine re-entry, and proposes a Loop Parameter Framework whose joint product determines whether a topologically adequate loop reaches ignition.