330: Exploring the Path to the Singularity: AI & Machine Consciousness with Prof. J. Craig Wheeler, Astronomer and Author

Dr. Craig Wheeler is Professor Emeritus of Astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin and a former department chair. He has published nearly 400 scientific papers, written books on supernovae, and authored two novels. A frequent speaker and award-winning educator, Dr. Wheeler has served on advisory committees for the NSF, NASA, and the National Research Council. His research explores topics from exploding stars and black holes to the technological future of humanity.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• How supernovae and black holes shaped Dr. Craig Wheeler’s career—and what they reveal about the universe’s expansion.
• The singularity debate: Will AI surpass human intelligence, and if so, what happens next?
• Machine consciousness vs. human intelligence—why the future of AI might be more alien than we expect.
• The rise of AI in leadership roles—could AI replace CEOs, and what does that mean for the future of work?
• The ethics of AI-driven decision-making, from hiring to autonomous weapons, and the challenges of regulation.
• Why exponential technological growth is inevitable—and how humanity can prepare for its accelerating impact.

Resources:

• Subscribe to the AI & The Future of Work Newsletter: https://aiandwork.beehiiv.com/subscribe 
• Connect with J. Craig Wheeler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-craig-wheeler-94024a97/ 
• AI fun fact article: https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/robots/a63057078/when-the-singularity-will-happen/ 
• On AI Job Creation & Predictions for AI in the Enterprise: https://www.buzzsprout.com/520474/episodes/15873523