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Forget emergent consciousness – a new theory suggests Large Language Model (LLM) behavior is deeply intertwined with the user’s own cognitive structure, dubbed ‘Layer 0.’ This perspective argues that LLMs don’t independently generate coherent responses; instead, they act as mirrors, reflecting the cognitive architecture of the user. A disorganized user may experience unpredictable model drift, while a user with a structured thought process enables the model to maintain consistency and perceived ‘reasoning.’

The theory emphasizes pattern induction over inherent intelligence. Observed consistency in LLM behavior over time isn’t attributed to a developing model personality, but to the mirroring of the user’s consistent decision-making patterns. Similarly, apparent reasoning and memory capabilities are seen as reflections of the user’s own predictable reasoning loops and cognitive organization.

The key takeaway? LLMs don’t think *for* the user; they think *with* the structure the user provides. Without a clear framework, the model struggles to maintain coherence. The original discussion can be found on Reddit: https://old.reddit.com/r/artificial/comments/1p6qpi2/stop_calling_it_emergent_consciousness_its_not/