Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal Bernardo Kastrup, Donald Hoffman, Susan Schneider: Debate on Consciousness
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Mar 10, 2023 
Bernardo Kastrup, a Dutch computer scientist and metaphysical idealist, joins Donald Hoffman, a cognitive psychologist known for his user interface theory, and Susan Schneider, a philosopher focused on machine perception, for a riveting debate on consciousness. They explore whether computers can truly be conscious, challenging conventional views. The discussion delves into the distinction between intelligence and consciousness, the implications of AI, and the necessity for a rethink of consciousness as a fundamental aspect of reality rather than just a byproduct of physical systems.
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Consciousness and Reality
- Donald Hoffman argues that the question of machine consciousness assumes a flawed framework.
- He believes space, time, and physical objects are not fundamental, thus questioning how consciousness arises from them.
Wait and See Approach
- Susan Schneider suggests that machine consciousness is logically coherent but may not emerge from increased intelligence.
- She advocates for a "wait and see" approach, acknowledging the unknowns in creating conscious AI.
Private Inner Life
- Bernardo Kastrup agrees that consciousness is primary but questions whether computers can have a private inner life.
- He argues against using similarity of information flow between brains and computers as justification for machine consciousness.
