Taro Nakao

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About

Taro Nakao is a pioneering researcher in the intersection of robotics, artificial consciousness, and bio-inspired behavior design. His work centers on developing computational models that bridge the gap between internal subjective experience and external physical action, particularly for small autonomous robots. Nakao’s most cited contribution, "Imitation of animal behavior with use of a model of consciousness-behavior relation for a small robot" (2002, 13 citations), introduces a hierarchical framework where consciousness emerges at different levels to guide lifelike behavior. This foundational paper proposes that by modeling the relationship between consciousness and behavior, robots can more authentically mimic animal actions and develop their own "subjective world." Though his citation count is modest, Nakao’s work is notable for its early and ambitious attempt to operationalize philosophical concepts of consciousness within practical robotic systems—a challenge that remains at the forefront of cognitive robotics. His research offers a unique perspective for students and researchers interested in embodied cognition, behavior-based robotics, and the quest to create machines with a sense of self.