Machine Learning Street Talk (MLST)

Joscha Bach - AGI24 Keynote (Cyberanimism)

31 snips
Aug 21, 2024
Guest
Joscha Bach
Dr. Joscha Bach, an AI researcher renowned for his insights into consciousness and AGI, introduces the intriguing concept of "cyber animism." He explores the idea that nature might host self-organizing software agents, similar to ancient spirits. Bach combines philosophy, history, and cutting-edge science, suggesting consciousness could be more widespread than we think. He encourages a rethinking of the distinctions between human, artificial, and natural intelligence, probing the connections between consciousness, self-awareness, and even plant signaling.
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INSIGHT

Consciousness in Animism

  • Consciousness is a key aspect missing in many perspectives on animism.
  • Bach urges earnest consideration of consciousness's role in minds and learning systems.
INSIGHT

Cultural Views on Consciousness

  • Other cultures, particularly animist ones, don't struggle with the hard problem of consciousness like Western philosophy does.
  • Their different metaphysics might be a reason why.
INSIGHT

Software as Spirit

  • Our bodies and minds run on self-organizing software, similar to spirits in ancient beliefs.
  • This 'software' is the true invariant, organizing cells and driving behavior.
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