Instant Genius cover image

Instant Genius

How AI is helping us to understand how our brains learn

Mar 3, 2025
Andrew Saxe, a computational neuroscientist at University College London, discusses the groundbreaking intersection of AI and neuroscience. He reveals how AI mimics human learning processes, shedding light on the complexities of brain function. The conversation touches on AI's potential in enhancing education and understanding memory formation, particularly the role of the hippocampus. Saxe also highlights future possibilities in treating brain disorders and the exciting discoveries in connecting AI learning mechanisms with human cognitive processes.
26:55

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Artificial intelligence is helping researchers model brain functions, potentially leading to deeper insights into learning processes and memory formation.
  • Understanding the brain's complex architecture not only informs AI development but also offers therapeutic potential for treating memory-related conditions.

Deep dives

The Intersection of AI and Brain Function

Artificial intelligence (AI) is drawing inspiration from the complex structure of the human brain, particularly in understanding learning processes. The mechanisms behind neural networks bear resemblance to neural connections in the brain, which are composed of simple units that, when interconnected, enable sophisticated functions. Research aims to determine whether AI systems can effectively model brain activities or if they merely serve as inspiration. This exploration is essential for unraveling the intricacies of how our brains process information and develop learning capabilities.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode