Can machines ever be like us? Prof Michael Wooldridge on the future of AI
Dec 19, 2023
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Prof Michael Wooldridge, an AI researcher for over 30 years, discusses the evolution of AI, human intelligence, and his concerns. Topics include the impact of AI in society, the distinction between intelligence and consciousness, self-interest in AI, and the philosophical implications of AI. A Science Weekly Christmas special.
AI language models like Chat GPT have sparked discussions about machine consciousness and intelligence.
Replicating general human skills in robotics is still a distant goal compared to the capabilities of AI language models like Chat GPT.
Deep dives
The Rise of Chat GPT
Chat GPT brought AI to the forefront by demonstrating its ability to generate intelligent responses to user queries. The program made people aware of AI's capabilities, sparking debates about machine consciousness and intelligence.
The Gap Between Language Models and Robotics
While AI language models like Chat GPT have made significant strides, robotics is still far behind in terms of replicating general human skills. The Hollywood version of AI is far from reality, as achieving a truly versatile and capable AI system is still a distant goal.
Exploring AI Consciousness
The question of whether AI can be conscious is a complex one. While AI systems like Chat GPT can simulate human-like conversations, they lack real experiences and interaction with the environment, which are fundamental aspects of consciousness. Machine consciousness would likely be different and distinct from human consciousness.
Prof Michael Wooldridge has been an AI researcher for more than 30 years, and in the year that AI was supercharged by ChatGPT, he is giving the Royal Institution’s Christmas lectures on the truth about AI. The Guardian science correspondent Nicola Davis sat down with him to find out how he sees AI evolving, what makes human intelligence unique, and what really keeps him awake at night. Madeleine Finlay hears from them both in this Science Weekly Christmas special.. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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