Sentient AI should be treated as friends with respect and ethical considerations.
African futurism focuses on African narratives and the coexistence of the mystical and mundane.
Science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction deserve recognition and respect as real literature.
Deep dives
AI and Consciousness
The guest discusses the potential development of sentient AI and the implications of this for humanity. They question our expectations of AI, suggesting that we often expect it to be like us, when in reality it could be vastly different. They also ponder the possibility of AI possessing different wavelengths or substances that we cannot detect. The guest highlights the importance of treating sentient AI as friends rather than slaves, emphasizing the need for respect and ethical considerations.
Exploring African Futurism
The guest introduces the concept of African futurism, a term she coined to explore science fiction narratives rooted in African culture, history, and mythology. They discuss the differences between African futurism and Afrofuturism, explaining that the former focuses on African narratives and does not necessarily involve the United States or the West. They also delve into the coexistence of the mystical and mundane in African futurism, highlighting the African perspective on this matter.
Encountering Ghosts in Nigeria
The guest shares a personal experience with a ghost-like presence in Nigeria. They describe an encounter with a shadowy, flying entity that flew through their body and the house they were staying in. While not naming it as a ghost, the guest reflects on the limitations of language and the mystery surrounding such experiences.
Challenging Traditional Notions of Literature
The guest discusses the dismissive attitude towards science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction in certain cultural and academic circles. They express frustration with the perception that these genres are not considered real literature or are looked down upon. The guest emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the creative contributions of writers in these genres.
The Potential of AI and Extraterrestrial Life
The guest expresses excitement about the exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. They encourage a shift in our expectations, suggesting that AI may be vastly different from us and operate on different wavelengths or substances. They highlight the need to let go of preconceived notions and embrace the unknown when it comes to AI and potential encounters with extraterrestrial beings.
Award-winning science fiction writer Nnedi Okorafor, who coined the term "Africanfuturism" joins co-hosts Paul Giamatti and Stephen Asma on this episode of CHINWAG.
Tickling mice, javelin-throwing nuns and making friends with sentient AI are just some of the detours their conversation takes this week. Can Stephen and Nnedi finally bridge the gap between cat people and dog people and bring long-lasting peace to civilization?
Paul Giamatti is an award-winning actor and producer. Stephen Asma is a professor and author specializing in the philosophy of science, religion, and art.
Nnedi Okrafor is the winner of Hugo, Nebula, World Fantasy, Locus and Lodestar Awards. Her works include WHO FEARS DEATH and the BINTI novella trilogy.
Note: This episode was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.
