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Motley Fool Money

The Future of AI and The Nature of Consciousness

Jan 18, 2025
Terry Sejnowski, Frances Crick Chair at the Salk Institute and author of "ChatGPT and The Future of AI," dives into the fascinating intersection of AI and consciousness. He explains how AI tools can handle complex tasks like playing Go effortlessly, yet contrasts this with human awareness. They discuss the potential of chatbots and animal intelligence, using an insightful example of Alex the parrot. The conversation also touches on how AI may reshape the workforce, enhance our understanding of brain functions, and even raise questions about digital immortality.
42:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Understanding the mechanics of large language models like ChatGPT reveals significant differences in processing information when compared to human cognitive functions.
  • The impact of AI on the job market will lead to shifts in job roles and the necessity for knowledge workers to adapt and acquire new skills.

Deep dives

Understanding Large Language Models and Neural Interaction

Large language models, such as ChatGPT, operate using a structure known as the transformer, which has enabled advancements in generative AI. These models utilize vast databases to analyze input and produce human-like text outputs, but they do not possess memory in the same way humans do. While they can contextualize data during interactions, they rely on pre-training to generate responses and cannot learn or recall personal information over time. This understanding illustrates the fundamental differences in how AI processes information compared to human cognitive functions.

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