Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg How many minds do you have? (with Kaj Sotala)
Jan 19, 2022
Kaj Sotala, an emotion coach and AI researcher, dives into the fascinating concept of the mind as a collection of sub-agents instead of a single rational entity. He discusses the global workspace theory of consciousness and how it relates to meditation and multitasking. The conversation explores how conflicting beliefs shape our decisions and self-perception, emphasizing personal growth through understanding subconscious influences. Transformational therapy techniques are also examined, highlighting their role in emotional resolution and growth.
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Rational Agent Model
- The classical view of the mind assumes people pursue goals based on beliefs about the best way to achieve them.
- This is sometimes called the rational agent model.
Multi-Agent Model
- An alternative model views the mind as composed of multiple parts with potentially conflicting beliefs and preferences.
- This multi-agent model appears in psychotherapy, meditation theory, and neuroscience.
Changing Goals
- People often find themselves acting differently in a situation than they intended.
- Kaj Sotala gives the example of repeatedly having the same argument with a partner despite resolving not to.
