Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Anand Vaidya: Vedic Philosophy, Epistemology, Counterfactuals

18 snips
Oct 24, 2023
Guest
Anand Vaidya
Anand Vaidya, a professor at San Jose State University, dives into the depths of Vedic philosophy and ethics. He discusses the mind-body connection, the nature of consciousness, and the moral implications of AI. Vaidya also explores the concepts of free will versus determinism, and how these ideas resonate in modern dialogues. He critiques Western misconceptions of Indian philosophy while advocating for the rich insights found in Vedic texts, emphasizing the fusion of logic, spirituality, and morality.
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INSIGHT

Moral Standing Without Sentience

  • Anand Vaidya argues machines can have moral standing without sentience.
  • He suggests focusing on affective and phenomenal consciousness instead of sentience.
INSIGHT

Consciousness Types

  • Phenomenal consciousness involves subjective experience (what it's like).
  • Affective consciousness adds a pleasure/pain (hedonic tone) component.
ANECDOTE

Dostoevsky on Pain and Pleasure

  • Curt Jaimungal cites Dostoevsky, noting pain can be more pure than happiness.
  • He questions whether pain can be more pleasurable or worthy.
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