[cgio]

That’s valid also from the point of view that pain is a key signal to avoid injury. I am not sure it’s the best example of qualia and it could be simulated by self preservation signals (e.g. the touch sensor on a Roomba). The extension of pain (in Hofstadter sense) is probably more appropriate as qualia (e.g. the pain of losing someone you love).

[RealityVoid]

I really should go back to finish reading GEB. I loved the beginning, but for some reason I dropped off somewhere in the first 1/3. I'm not sure I fully get the point, although I have a vague sense I agree with you. :)

[rwmj]

The Mind's I (a collection of essays) or I Am a Strange Loop are probably more appropriate reading here.

[cgio]

Apologies. I should be more specific. The book is Surfaces and Essences if I remember correctly.