When we see an object that has a feedback loop we ascribe it a more human goal-oriented desire. For example, the plant that curves towards the window “wants” to get more sunlight. Even a simple feedback loop (where the plant points to the window as it grows) raises this innate perception of an object with desires.
From I Am a Strange Loop.
See also:
- Similar to degrees of souledness, we judge the object differently when it has desires compared to a cold machine