"World of DaaS"

Steven Pinker: Human Cognition vs. AI

Aug 8, 2023

Guest Steven Pinker, a linguist and cognitive scientist, discusses artificial intelligence and cognitive science, emphasizing the need for open debates in universities. They also explore the human tendency to catastrophize, the role of emotions in decision-making, and the use of politeness in communication. The speakers question the validity of trusting gut instincts and delve into the significance of gut reactions in decision making processes.

50:39

Episode guests

Steven Pinker

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Quick takeaways

The computational theory of mind suggests that intelligence comes from information processing in the brain and views thinking as computation with control and feedback mechanisms.

There are differences between artificial and real neural networks, including the lack of abstract mental representations and symbols for ideas that humans possess, as well as the higher energy consumption required for training artificial networks.

True intelligence involves pursuing multiple goals and preserving diverse and cooperative relationships, rather than solely focusing on one goal regardless of consequences.

Deep dives

The Computational Theory of Mind

The computational theory of mind proposes that intelligence comes from information processing in the brain. It suggests that knowledge, perception, and ideas are patterns in the brain that correlate with things in the world. Thinking is viewed as computation, where information is transformed into other forms by physical processes. Control and feedback mechanisms play a role in achieving intelligent behavior.

Introduction

4min

The Analogy Between Artificial Neural Networks and the Human Brain

14min

The Importance of Quality Data and the Limitations of Traditional Journalism

2min

Catastrophizing and the Concept of Progress

7min

Fear, Emotions, and Perception of Reality

14min

The Role of Common Knowledge and Politeness in Communication

6min

Evaluating the Conventional Wisdom of Trusting Your Gut

2min

The Role of Gut Reactions in Decision-Making and the Concept of Bounded Rationality

2min

Steven Pinker is a linguist, cognitive scientist, and a professor in the Department of Psychology at Harvard. He’s the author of twelve books, including the bestsellers How the Mind Works, Enlightenment Now, and most recently Rationality.

Auren and Steven delve into the world of artificial intelligence, cognitive science, and intellectual freedom. Steven brings his perspective from cognitive psychology to explain how AI does (and does not) mirror the human brain.

They also explore the complexities of disasters, rationality, and academic freedom, with Steven emphasizing the necessity of open debates in universities. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on honesty, common knowledge, and communication, pondering on the idea that humans sometimes need to forget the truth to remain human.

World of DaaS is brought to you by SafeGraph & Flex Capital. For more episodes, visit safegraph.com/podcasts.

You can find Auren Hoffman on Twitter at @auren and Steven on Twitter at @sapinker.

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"World of DaaS"

Steven Pinker: Human Cognition vs. AI

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Computational Theory of Mind

Artificial Neural Networks

AI Safety and Existential Threats

Technology's Impact on Cognitive Abilities

Rationality and Common Knowledge

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts