Mind-Body Solution Will We Know When AI Becomes Conscious? The Epistemic Fog of Artificial Minds | Eric Schwitzgebel
Nov 5, 2025
Join philosopher Eric Schwitzgebel as he explores the intriguing complexities of AI consciousness. With a focus on his upcoming book, he presents the concept of the 'epistemic fog'—the uncertainty surrounding whether machines can truly experience consciousness. He discusses the limitations of introspection and conceptual analysis in defining consciousness, the dangers of behavioral mimicry, and suggests cautious optimism in understanding strange intelligences. Don't miss his insights on the moral implications of AI consciousness and the importance of humility in our technological future.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Epistemic Fog Around AI Consciousness
- The science of consciousness is immature and will leave us uncertain about AI sentience for decades.
- We may build many disputable conscious systems before scientific consensus emerges.
Phenomenal Consciousness Defined
- Consciousness here means the familiar what-it's-like episodes: imagery, pain, inner speech, and sensory experience.
- The key question is whether that kind of experience will occur in AI systems.
Ten Candidate Features Shape The Debate
- Schwitzgebel lists ten plausible features (e.g., subjectivity, unity, access, luminosity) that theories treat as possibly essential.
- Which of those are truly essential remains unresolved and matters for AI design.
