Big Technology Podcast What Is Consciousness And Can Machines Achieve It — With Anil Seth
Oct 19, 2022
Anil Seth, a professor of cognitive and computational neuroscience at the University of Sussex and author of 'Being You,' dives into the fascinating realm of consciousness and AI. He explores what defines consciousness and the scientific hurdles AI must overcome to achieve it. The discussion also touches on the ethical dilemmas posed by AI in the metaverse, the simulation hypothesis, and the subjective nature of free will. Seth emphasizes the importance of understanding individual perceptions and the moral responsibilities that come with developing conscious machines.
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Defining Consciousness
- Consciousness was previously ill-defined, relying on subjective understanding.
- Now, there are attempts to define consciousness scientifically, though it's still debated.
What is Consciousness?
- Consciousness, according to Thomas Nagel, is "something it is like" to be an organism.
- It's distinct from self-awareness or intelligence, encompassing any subjective experience.
Intelligence vs. Consciousness
- Many attribute consciousness to AI based on increasing intelligence, a human-centric view.
- Anil Seth rejects this, citing examples of conscious organisms with limited intelligence.
