

What Technology Can (And Can't) Do | Rosalind Picard & Joshua Knobe
Jun 13, 2024
Rosalind Picard, an MIT computer scientist renowned for her work in affective computing, and Joshua Knobe, a Yale philosopher with a focus on the philosophy of mind, dive deep into what it means to be human. They tackle the limitations of AI in replicating true emotions, explore the bond between humans and pets, and examine the ethical concerns surrounding emotional robots. This thought-provoking conversation challenges our understanding of agency, compassion, and the essence of humanity in the face of rapid technological advancement.
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Humanity's Two Key Elements
- Humans are perceived as fully human by attributing both agency and experience to them.
- Dehumanization occurs when one denies either a person's capacity to act or to experience emotions.
Empathy Between Dog and Owner
- Rosalind Picard shares a quick story about a dog mirroring its master's emotions, showing empathy.
- Pets may appear to understand and care for human feelings, illustrating complex emotional exchanges.
Animals Feel, Humans Reason
- Animals are thought to experience feelings without complex reasoning.
- Humans see themselves as capable of moral reasoning and self-control unlike animals.