Abstract
This chapter presents an analysis of the different approaches that may lead to the creation of artificially intelligent and conscious systems, which I call digital minds. In particular, it considers three different avenues that may eventually lead to intelligent systems: synthetic intelligences, neuromorphic intelligent systems, and whole brain emulation, also known as mind uploading. The challenges and potential of each of these approaches are described and analysed. Existing programs that may be the prototypes of future intelligent and even fully conscious systems are presented and examined. The chapter concludes by presenting a brief overview of the complex questions that surround the concept of consciousness, and some of the experiments that have been performed in order to advance our understanding of this phenomenon.