Eric Schwitzgebel

Eric Schwitzgebel, a philosophy professor at UC Riverside and author of "A Theory of Jerks," dives into the bizarre realm of consciousness. He explores why our intuitions often fail when grappling with profound questions about reality, such as the provocative idea that the United States could be a conscious entity. Thought experiments like "supersquids" challenge listeners to rethink what consciousness might entail. Schwitzgebel emphasizes the intrinsic weirdness of existence and the importance of embracing it while probing deeper into the nature of consciousness itself.

Join Professor Eric Schwitzgebel, a philosopher from UC Riverside, as he dives into the intriguing realm of AI consciousness. He discusses philosophical theories like dualism and idealism, unpacking their implications for AI ethics. The conversation challenges our understanding of perception across species, including garden snails, and explores the moral responsibilities of AI developers. Schwitzgebel emphasizes the need for caution in AI design, raising thought-provoking questions about consciousness that resonate deeply in our evolving technological landscape.

Eric Schwitzgebel, a philosophy professor at UC Riverside and author of "The Weirdness of the World," dives into the bizarre aspects of reality. He explores the philosophical implications of quantum mechanics and consciousness, questioning the boundaries of human thought versus AI-generated insights. The discussion touches on ethical dilemmas relating to beliefs and behaviors, and emphasizes the oddities inherent in perceptions of existence. Schwitzgebel encourages embracing skepticism while marveling at the complexities of our universe.

Delving into the bizarre world of philosophy, Schwitzgebel challenges our comprehension with mind-boggling theories. From a conscious USA to infinite future possibilities, the podcast explores the thrill of contemplating the strangest philosophical scenarios.

Eric Schwitzgebel, a philosophy professor, delves into speculative topics on consciousness and the cosmos. He discusses the plausibility of multiple universes, the concept of living in a simulation, and the value of intellectual play in exploring complex ideas. Schwitzgebel challenges conventional theories and encourages playful consideration of philosophical mysteries.