The Trajectory Michael Levin - Unfolding New Paradigms of Posthuman Intelligence [Worthy Successor, Episode 7]
39 snips
Mar 14, 2025 
Dr. Michael Levin, a pioneering developmental biologist at Tufts University, dives into the future of intelligence beyond humanity. He critiques our resistance to new concepts of intelligence, arguing for a ‘worthy successor’ capable of profound empathy. Levin explores philosophical connections of self-interest across biological systems and the evolution of intelligence itself. He discusses the moral dilemmas posed by AI and calls for a broader ethical framework. This conversation challenges longstanding views and invites listeners to envision a diverse, intelligent future.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Intelligence Beyond Brains
- Intelligence isn't limited to brains and muscles; it existed long before them.
- Even embryonic development showcases a problem-solving, creative intelligence.
Intelligence as Goal Achievement
- Intelligence is the ability to achieve goals through different means.
- Even simple gene regulatory networks, without cells or brains, exhibit learning.
Butterfly Metamorphosis
- Caterpillars completely refactor their brains during metamorphosis into butterflies.
- Despite this, butterflies retain memories, but those memories are useless in their new form.