[wxs]

> of consciousness, we have agents that perceive the environment and act, in order to maximize rewards

I don't believe "agents acting to maximize rewards" is a good description of any human I know, or if it is the reward function is certainly unknown.

[visarga]

> if it is the reward function is certainly unknown

It is a collection of reward channels related to the functioning of the body (food, shelter), learning (curiosity), socializing (and physical touch), physical integrity (avoiding harm). Even newborn babies like to be held and are curious about objects around them - they are already learning to maximize rewards.