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.

01:27:36

Creator website

Episode guests

Kaj Sotala

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

The Mind as a Multitude

5min

The Complexity of Multitasking and Consciousness

18min

The Sub-Agents of Memory and Decision-Making

6min

Understanding Trauma, Behavior, and Gender Differences

4min

The Complexity of Belief and Self-Perception

22min

Navigating the Obligation of Reading

4min

Confronting Inner Beliefs

23min

Exploring the Effectiveness of Transformational Techniques

3min

Read the full transcript here.

What are the advantages of viewing the mind through the multi-agent model as opposed to (say) the rational / optimizing agent model? What is the "global workspace" theory of consciousness? What's going on during concentration meditation according to the global workspace theory? If our brains are composed of multiple sub-agents, then what does it mean when I say, "I believe such-and-such"? Are beliefs context-dependent (i.e., you believe P in one context and not-P in a different context)? What effects do the various therapeutic modalities and meditation practices have on our beliefs? What are the advantages of transformational therapy over other approaches?

Kaj Sotala is interested in finding ways that would allow everyone to reach their fullest potential with regard to agency, inner harmony, and well-being. He believes that the upper limits on these are somewhere very high indeed. Kaj has worked as an emotion coach, software developer, and researcher focusing on the long-term consequences of advanced artificial intelligence. One of his last research projects was the Multiagent Models of Mind article series, combining perspectives from a variety of fields ranging from psychotherapy to AI and neuroscience, for better understanding how the mind works. His website is kajsotala.fi, and he also posts articles on lesswrong.com. You can also follow him on Twitter and Facebook or email him at kaj.sotala@gmail.com.

Staff